Social working memory(SWM)—the ability to maintain and manipulate social information in the brain—plays a crucial role in social interactions.However,research on SWM is still in its infancy and is often treated as a...Social working memory(SWM)—the ability to maintain and manipulate social information in the brain—plays a crucial role in social interactions.However,research on SWM is still in its infancy and is often treated as a unitary construct.In the present study,we propose that SWM can be conceptualized as having two relatively independent components:"externally oriented SWM"(e-SWM)and"internally oriented SWM"(i-SWM).To test this external–internal hypothesis,participants were tasked with memorizing and ranking either facial expressions(e-SWM)or personality traits(i-SWM)associated with images of faces.We then examined the neural correlates of these two SWM components and their functional roles in empathy.The results showed distinct activations as the e-SWM task activated the postcentral and precentral gyri while the i-SWM task activated the precuneus/posterior cingulate cortex and superior frontal gyrus.Distinct multivariate activation patterns were also found within the dorsal medial prefrontal cortex in the two tasks.Moreover,partial least squares analyses combining brain activation and individual differences in empathy showed that e-SWM and i-SWM brain activities were mainly correlated with affective empathy and cognitive empathy,respectively.These findings implicate distinct brain processes as well as functional roles of the two types of SWM,providing support for the internal–external hypothesis of SWM.展开更多
Neuroinflammation is a crucial factor in the progression of various diseases,ranging from immune-related conditions such as sepsis to neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease(AD)(Ravichandran and Henek...Neuroinflammation is a crucial factor in the progression of various diseases,ranging from immune-related conditions such as sepsis to neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease(AD)(Ravichandran and Heneka,2024).This perspective article,which draws on insights from diverse fields including neuroscience,immunology,and pathology,p rovides a critical analysis of ongoing research efforts in inflammasome biology,with specific emphasis on Nod-like receptor(NLR)and pyrin domain-containing protein 3(NLRP3).展开更多
Facial and vocal expressions are essential modalities mediating the perception of emotion and social communication.Nonetheless,currently little is known about how emotion perception and its neural substrates differ ac...Facial and vocal expressions are essential modalities mediating the perception of emotion and social communication.Nonetheless,currently little is known about how emotion perception and its neural substrates differ across facial expression and vocal prosody.To clarify this issue,functional MRI scans were acquired in Study 1,in which participants were asked to discriminate the valence of emotional expression(angry,happy or neutral)from facial,vocal,or bimodal stimuli.In Study 2,we used an affective priming task(unimodal materials as primers and bimodal materials as target)and participants were asked to rate the intensity,valence,and arousal of the targets.Study 1 showed higher accuracy and shorter response latencies in the facial than in the vocal modality for a happy expression.Whole-brain analysis showed enhanced activation during facial compared to vocal emotions in the inferior temporal-occipital regions.Region of interest analysis showed a higher percentage signal change for facial than for vocal anger in the superior temporal sulcus.Study 2 showed that facial relative to vocal priming of anger had a greater influence on perceived emotion for bimodal targets,irrespective of the target valence.These findings suggest that facial expression is associated with enhanced emotion perception compared to equivalent vocal prosodies.展开更多
Background: Depressive disorder is often accompanied by physiological changes that may adversely affect the course of medical illness, including an increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines. Methods: We examine the effec...Background: Depressive disorder is often accompanied by physiological changes that may adversely affect the course of medical illness, including an increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines. Methods: We examine the effects of religious cognitive behavioral therapy (RCBT) vs. conventional CBT (CCBT) on pro-/anti-inflammatory indicators and stress hormones in 132 individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) and chronic medical illness who were recruited into a multi-site randomized clinical trial. Biomarkers (C-reactive protein and pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-12-p70), anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL1ra, IL-4, IL-10), and stress hormones (urinary cortisol, epinephrine, norepinephrine) were assessed at baseline, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks. Differential effects of baseline religiosity on treatment response were also examined, along with effects of religiosity on changes in biomarkers over time independent of treatment group. Biomarker levels were log transformed where possible to normalize distributions. Mixed models were used to examine trajectories of change. Results: CRP increased and IL-4, IL-10, and epinephrine decreased over time, mostly in the opposite direction expected (except epinephrine). No significant difference between RCBT and CCBT was found on average trajectory of change in any biomarkers. Religiosity interacted with treatment group in effects on IL-6, such that CCBT was more effective than RCBT in lowering lL-6 in those with low religiosity whereas RCBT appeared to be more effective than CCBT in those with high religiosity. Higher baseline religiosity also tended to predict an increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines INF-γ and IL-12 (p70) and urinary cortisol over time. Conclusions: RCBT and CCBT had similar effects on stress biomarkers. CCBT was more effective in reducing IL-6 levels in those with low religiosity, whereas RCBT tended to be more effective in those with high religiosity. Unexpectedly, higher baseline religiosity was associated with an increase in several stress biomarkers.展开更多
Purpose: This study analyzed treatment effects of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) group counseling intervention on HIV transmission risk behavior, depression, anxiety, and alcohol use in HIV perinatally infected ad...Purpose: This study analyzed treatment effects of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) group counseling intervention on HIV transmission risk behavior, depression, anxiety, and alcohol use in HIV perinatally infected adolescents attending an HIV clinical care center in Uganda, Africa. Method: A total of 186 adolescents were randomly assigned to an experimental or control arm and assigned into groups of 11 - 16 adolescents. The experimental groups received an 80-minute CBT based weekly intervention for 8 consecutive weeks, while the control groups received only standard group care. Data from self report assessments were analyzed at pre- and post-test using repeated measures of analysis of variance. The participants, analyzed by variable, included 115 for sexual behavior, 106 for depression, 88 for anxiety, and 115 for alcohol use. Results: The results from the study show a large significant difference (p = 0.006) between the experimental and control groups on the anxiety variable. There were no significant differences between the experimental and control groups on the variables of sexual behavior (p = 0.876), depression (p = 0.700), and alcohol use (p = 0.815). There was an indication of reduced levels of HIV sexual transmission risk behavior, depression, and alcohol use levels in the participants in both the experimental and control groups. Conclusions: Risky sexual behavior places HIV perinatally infected adolescents at risk of re-infection, sexually transmitted diseases, and transmitting HIV to their sexual partners. CBT group counseling intervention equipped the participating adolescents with appropriate life skills to deal with psychological distress and anxiety often seen in their lives and may be useful in routine medical care to reduce transmission risks and improve wellness and call for its incorporation into HIV preventive programs and counselor education.展开更多
Background: We examined family health history (FHH) as a public health intervention tool in undergraduate students. We hypothesized that the FHH assignment would positively relate to students’ FHH knowledge and healt...Background: We examined family health history (FHH) as a public health intervention tool in undergraduate students. We hypothesized that the FHH assignment would positively relate to students’ FHH knowledge and health and healthcare-seeking behavioral change. Methods: Health professional students’ (n = 103) pre/post-test surveys and research papers were collected in 2011-2012, from a mid-western and southern university in the United States of America, using mixed methods research. Results: The majority of students were aged 18 - 30, women, White, had healthcare access and health insurance, and awareness of the term FHH. Significant logistic regression relationships existed between: 1) helping students understand important strengths and weaknesses in their health and quality of life and outcomes of talking with family and doctors about FHH;and 2) improving students’ understanding of what they needed to do to maintain their health and the outcome statement “FHH tells you about inherited genes.” Key themes from the research papers included actions and FHH and proposed behavioral changes. Conclusions: Quantitative findings supported the relationship between students’ assignment evaluation and knowledge change, while qualitative findings supported relationships between assignment evaluation and knowledge and behavioral change. This study highlights regional differences in students’ FHH and the need to address family support barriers to behavioral change.展开更多
Objective: Anxiety disorders of childhood are prevalent, debilitating conditions that do not always respond to existing treatments. Attentional biases towards threatening stimuli have been reported in anxious children...Objective: Anxiety disorders of childhood are prevalent, debilitating conditions that do not always respond to existing treatments. Attentional biases towards threatening stimuli have been reported in anxious children and hypothesized to interfere with treatment response. Therefore, we examined such biases in children with anxiety disorders in relation to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) outcomes. Method: Thirty-eight children diagnosed with anxiety disorders in a specialized clinic (21 girls and 17 boys;age = 10.50 ± 1.11 years) and 36 unaffected community controls (19 girls and 17 boys;age = 10.20 ± 1.07 years) participated. Participants completed standardized questionnaire measures of anxiety and a probe position task (PPT) with facial cues. This task often reveals a response slowing effect related to threatening faces in vulnerable individuals. Children with anxiety disorders repeated these measures after completing CBT. Results: Groups did not differ in performance on the PPT, but angry/calm incongruent difference scores were significantly associated with self-reports of social anxiety and state anxiety. When controlling for pre-CBT anxiety levels, incongruent difference scores involving angry faces predicted post-CBT anxiety disorders index scores on the Multidimensional Anxiety Scale for Children. PPT scores did not change significantly with CBT. Conclusions: Attentional bias towards threat on the PPT task may predict response to CBT and appears linked to social anxiety. Interventions to ameliorate this bias merit further study, as they might improve treatment outcomes for anxious, especially socially anxious, children.展开更多
In January 2025,the United States issued executive orders that could potentially curtail lesbian,gay,bisexual,transgender,queer,and other sexual and gender minorities(LGBTQ+)rights and federal aid to developing countr...In January 2025,the United States issued executive orders that could potentially curtail lesbian,gay,bisexual,transgender,queer,and other sexual and gender minorities(LGBTQ+)rights and federal aid to developing countries,such as public health programs under the United States Agency for International Development(USAID)[1,2].In the Philippines,USAID has played an important role in funding and supporting initiatives to address the country’s local HIV epidemic[2,3].展开更多
HIV-related stigma,discrimination,and other forms of oppression can severely undermine adherence to antiretroviral therapy(ART)among people living with HIV[1].For example,Kerr et al.reveal that perceived discriminatio...HIV-related stigma,discrimination,and other forms of oppression can severely undermine adherence to antiretroviral therapy(ART)among people living with HIV[1].For example,Kerr et al.reveal that perceived discrimination based on sexual orientation in healthcare settings significantly reduces ART adherence[1].This highlights the urgent need for targeted strategies to address stigma,discrimination,and social marginalization,especially within healthcare facilities,to improve HIV care outcomes.展开更多
The United States Food and Drug Administration's(FDA's)August 2024 determination that an additional phase Ⅱ study will be required to consider the approval of midomafetamine for the treatment of posttraumatic...The United States Food and Drug Administration's(FDA's)August 2024 determination that an additional phase Ⅱ study will be required to consider the approval of midomafetamine for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder(PTSD)could delay the potential approval of this promising treatment by several years.展开更多
Objectives:Parentification,a role reversal where children assume age-inappropriate duties in the family,is a significant childhood adversity often linked to disrupted developmental trajectories and poor mental health ...Objectives:Parentification,a role reversal where children assume age-inappropriate duties in the family,is a significant childhood adversity often linked to disrupted developmental trajectories and poor mental health outcomes.Yet the complexity of parentification,influenced by various contextual factors,obscures a comprehensive understanding of its psychological consequences and its mental health aspects.The paper aims to map up-to-date research,synthesize key findings,and identify critical knowledge gaps.Methods:To that end,a systematic search was performed in Scopus,PsycINFO,PubMed,and EBSCO databases,and data was extracted and reviewed by two reviewers.The search yielded 29 studies,including 9 qualitative,1 mixed,and 19 quantitative studies that examined the mental health aspects of parentification,from various countries of origin.Results:Parentification,often arising from contexts like parental illness or substance abuse,is linked to varied mental and physical health outcomes.These outcomes are strongly moderated by the adolescent’s subjective perception of their role and the presence of protective factors like strong sibling relationships.The review also identified a clear pathway for the intergenerational transmission of parentification,where a parent’s own history was found to impact their parenting cognitions.Conclusion:This review concludes that future longitudinal research should move beyond negative or positive outcomes of parentification and investigate the mediating and moderating mechanisms that play a crucial role in the outcomes.Furthermore,the absence of prevalence studies on parentification is a notable limitation,and as a result,the size of the affected population remains unknown.Further research is also needed to identify potential protective factors in various circumstances.展开更多
To the Editor:Salam et al.found that more than half(54.2%)of Indonesian parents surveyed were willing to pay for a dengue vaccination[1].Using the Health Belief Model,the study identified four constructs that signific...To the Editor:Salam et al.found that more than half(54.2%)of Indonesian parents surveyed were willing to pay for a dengue vaccination[1].Using the Health Belief Model,the study identified four constructs that significantly influenced willingness to pay,including Perceived Susceptibility,Perceived Severity,Perceived Benefits,and Cues to Action[1].Interestingly,Perceived Barriers,including cost and potential side effects,did not show a significant effect[1].展开更多
Social hierarchies are central to the organizational structure of group-living species,shaping individual physiology,behavior,and social interactions.Dopaminergic(DA)systems,particularly within the ventral tegmental a...Social hierarchies are central to the organizational structure of group-living species,shaping individual physiology,behavior,and social interactions.Dopaminergic(DA)systems,particularly within the ventral tegmental area(VTA)and dorsal raphe nucleus(DR),have been linked to motivation and competitive behaviors,yet their region-specific contributions to social dominance remain insufficiently defined.This study investigated the role of VTA and DR DA neurons in regulating social dominance in sexually naïve male C57BL/6J mice.Stable hierarchies were established using the tube test,after which both dominant and subordinate mice exhibited elevated c-Fos expression within the VTA and DR.Notably,dominant mice displayed significantly greater c-Fos activation in DR DA neurons compared to subordinates.Fiber photometry revealed that DA neurons in both regions were activated during proactive push behaviors and inhibited during passive retreats,with DR neurons showing stronger activation during dominance-related actions.Chemogenetic inhibition of DR DA neurons in dominant mice reduced their social rank,whereas activation in subordinates elevated their rank.In contrast,chemogenetic modulation of VTA DA neurons had no significant effect on social dominance.Manipulation of DA neurons in both regions produced rank-dependent changes in specific anxiety-like behavioral phenotypes.These findings highlight the distinct roles of DR and VTA DA neurons in social hierarchy regulation,identifying DR DA neurons as a critical component in the modulation of social dominance.展开更多
BACKGROUND Burnout syndrome is a significant issue among healthcare professionals worldwide,marked by depersonalization,emotional exhaustion,and a reduced sense of personal achievement.This psychological and physical ...BACKGROUND Burnout syndrome is a significant issue among healthcare professionals worldwide,marked by depersonalization,emotional exhaustion,and a reduced sense of personal achievement.This psychological and physical burden profoundly affects healthcare professionals'quality of care and overall well-being.In Somalia,where the healthcare system faces numerous challenges,the escalating demand for medical services and inadequate resources,coupled with overwhelming workloads,long hours,and high-stress levels,make healthcare providers particularly vulnerable to burnout syndrome.This,in turn,affects both the mental health of healthcare personnel and the quality of care they provide.AIM To examine the prevalence and determinants of burnout syndrome among healthcare practitioners in Mogadishu,Somalia.METHODS This cross-sectional prospective study was performed among 246 healthcare providers employed at a tertiary care hospital in Mogadishu,Somalia,who were recruited via random sampling.Data were collected using questionnaires that covered sociodemographic,psychological,work-related characteristics,and burnout syndrome.Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the variables that correlated with burnout syndrome.The results were presented using adjusted odds ratios(AORs),95%CIs,and P values,with a cutoff of 0.05 for identifying significant associations.RESULTS Among the participants,24%(95%CI:18.8%–29.8%)exhibited symptoms of burnout syndrome.Factors associated with burnout included female gender(AOR=6.60;95%CI:2.29-19.04),being married(AOR=3.07;95%CI:1.14-8.28),being divorced or widowed(AOR=5.84;95%CI:1.35-25.35),working more than 7 night shifts(AOR=3.19;95%CI:1.30–7.82),having less than 5 years of job experience(AOR=5.28;95%CI:1.29-21.65),experiencing poor sleep quality(AOR=5.29;95%CI:1.88-14.89),and exhibiting depressive(AOR=4.46;95%CI:1.59-12.53)and anxiety symptoms(AOR=7.34;95%CI:2.49-21.60).CONCLUSION This study found that nearly one in four healthcare professionals suffers from burnout syndrome.Improving sleep quality,monitoring,and providing mental health support could enhance their well-being and patient care.展开更多
Background:University students face significant challenges inmaintaining healthy physical activity(PA)and dietary habits,and they often fall short of global health recommendations.Psychological factors such as social ...Background:University students face significant challenges inmaintaining healthy physical activity(PA)and dietary habits,and they often fall short of global health recommendations.Psychological factors such as social physique anxiety,body image concerns,and self-objectification may act as barriers to PA engagement,influencing both mental and physical health.The present study constructed a structural equation model(SEM)to examine the relationship between body image-related psychological factors and resistance to PA in university students from southern Spain.Methods:A cross-sectional and correlational study was conducted with 519 university students(74%females,26%males;Mean age=21.14±3.26 years)from universities in Granada and Malaga(Spain).Data were collected between May and October 2024 via online questionnaires that assessed PA engagement,Mediterranean diet adherence,eating disorder symptoms,body image-related psychological factors(social physique anxiety,appearance control beliefs,body surveillance,body shame,and self-esteem),and sociodemographic characteristics.SEM was performed to analyze relationships and sex-based differences.Results:Social physique anxietywas positively associated with body shame,body surveillance,and eating disorders,and negatively associated with self-esteem,PA engagement,and appearance control beliefs(all p<0.001).Appearance control beliefs were positively related to self-esteem,body surveillance,and PA(all p<0.05).Body surveillance was negatively linked to PA and positively linked to body shame.Mediterranean diet adherence and eating disorders were positively associated with PA(all p<0.001).Sex-based differences were observed in the model.Conclusion:Body image-related psychological factors may act as barriers to PA among university students.Interventions should integrate mental health promotion and consider sex differences.展开更多
Objectives Few studies have investigated longitudinal associations of loneliness with health outcomes in Africa.This study aimed to assess the longitudinal associations between loneliness and mental and physical healt...Objectives Few studies have investigated longitudinal associations of loneliness with health outcomes in Africa.This study aimed to assess the longitudinal associations between loneliness and mental and physical health among aging adults in South Africa.Methods Data from the 7-year longitudinal Health and Ageing in Africa(HAALSI)study conducted in South Africa were used in the analysis(analytic sample:n=3707,aged 40 years and older).Loneliness was measured with one question.Longitudinal relationships between loneliness and each health outcome were estimated using Generalized Estimating Equations analysis(GEE),hazard ratios(HRs)(95%CI)were used to determine the relationship between loneliness and 7-year mortality in the entire sample,and correlations between incident health outcomes and loneliness were evaluated using logistic regressions.Results The prevalence of loneliness was 12.1%in 2015,16.9%in 2019,and 16.3%in 2022.Multivariable analysis showed that loneliness was positively associated with the prevalence and/or incidence of four poor mental health indicators(e.g.,poor sleep quality,AOR=1.53,95%CI:1.30–1.80),four physical ill-health indicators(e.g.,incident kidney disease,AOR=2.50,95%CI:1.41–4.42),mortality(Hazard Ratio=1.20,95%CI=1.04–1.39),and three poor behavioral health indicators(e.g.,current tobacco use,AOR=1.21,95%CI=1.04–1.42).Conclusion The study discovered that several outcomes related to mental,physical,and behavioral health were associated with loneliness.Enhancing the detection and management of loneliness could lower mental and physical illness in aging adults in South Africa.展开更多
Background:Mental health literacy(MHL)refers to one’s knowledge and understanding of mental health disorders and their treatments.This literacy may be influenced by cultural norms and values that shape individuals’e...Background:Mental health literacy(MHL)refers to one’s knowledge and understanding of mental health disorders and their treatments.This literacy may be influenced by cultural norms and values that shape individuals’experiences,beliefs,attitudes,and behaviors regarding mental health.This study focuses on adapting the Mental health literacy scale(MHLS)for use in the multicultural context of Israel.Objectives include validating its construct,assessing its accuracy in measuring MHL in this diverse setting and examining and comparing levels of MHL across different cultural groups.Methods:The data collection included 1057 participants,representing all the ethnic groups of the Israeli population aged 18 and over.The tools included the MHLS and a demographic questionnaire.Confirmatory factor analysis(CFA)was employed to assess the original structure of the MHLS.Results:The results revealed that after evaluating the original MHLS,five items were excluded,leading to the validation of a modified version—Israeli mental health scale(IMHLS)with four factors and 25 items.CFA and reliability analyses supported an established and robust four-factor model.Significant ethnic differences in MHLS scores were identified,with Muslim participants showing the highest familiarity with mental disorders,followed by Druze and Christian participants,while Jewish participants had the lowest familiarity.Conclusion:The study concluded that the IMHLS is a valid and reliable tool for assessing MHL in Israel’s diverse and multicultural population.The revised scale better reflects the cultural nuances of the Israeli context.The significant ethnic differences that the study revealed in IMHLS emphasize the importance of culturally sensitive mental health interventions tailored to different ethnic groups in Israel.展开更多
Objective:To explore the perspectives of high-risk pregnant women regarding the home care program for high-risk pregnancies.Methods:This qualitative study was conducted in a university hospital and 5 comprehensive hea...Objective:To explore the perspectives of high-risk pregnant women regarding the home care program for high-risk pregnancies.Methods:This qualitative study was conducted in a university hospital and 5 comprehensive health centers in Ahvaz,Iran,from February 2023 to July 2023.The sampling method used was purposive sampling considering the maximum possible diversity,which continued until data saturation.11 in-depth and semistructured interviews were conducted with high-risk pregnant women.Data were simultaneously analysed using Graneheim and Lundman content analysis by MAXQDA version 20 software.Results:Data analysis extracted 3 themes,12 categories,and 26 subcategories.The themes and categories were“high-risk pregnancy and related issues(pursuing treatment and paying attention to the high-risk situation by pregnant women,psychological aspect of high-risk pregnancy on pregnant women and caregivers,emotional and physical aspects of high-risk pregnancy,the consequences of high-risk pregnancy on the people around them and empowerment of high-risk pregnant women)”,“support dimension(family and community support for high-risk pregnant women)”,and“framework of program(acculturalization,means and equipment,security,manpower and the necessary arrangements for the home care)”.Conclusions:High-risk pregnancy affects various aspects of the lives of high-risk pregnant women and their families.Creating the necessary conditions for providing care at home plays a vital role in supporting high-risk pregnant women and removing related obstacles to receiving prenatal care in person.It will be especially beneficial for high-risk pregnant women in low-income areas.展开更多
Existing evidence has demonstrated the association between exposure to volatile organic compounds(VOCs)and osteoporosis(OP)risk,but the underlying mechanistic framework remains unclear.This study aimed to explore pote...Existing evidence has demonstrated the association between exposure to volatile organic compounds(VOCs)and osteoporosis(OP)risk,but the underlying mechanistic framework remains unclear.This study aimed to explore potential pathways using adverse outcome pathway(AOP)analysis,and evidence this association in middle-to-old-aged American adults using the updated National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data.Multivariable-adjusted general linear and weighted quantile sum models were employed to analyze associations of VOC metabolites(VOCMs),representing internal VOCs exposure levels,with OP-related phenotypes.An AOP framework based on network analysis was developed by extracting target genes and phenotypes.Among 3555 American adults aged≥40 years(539 OP participants),we found that increasing urinary 3-and 4-methylhippuric acid,N-acetyl-S-(n-propyl)-l-cysteine(BPMA),and N-acetyl-S-(3-hydroxypropyl)-l-cysteine were associated with elevated OP odds with odds ratios(ORs)(95%confidence intervals,95%CIs)being 1.254(1.016 to 1.548),1.182(1.014 to 1.377),and 1.244(1.029 to 1.505),respectively,per standard deviation.Urinary BPMA and N-acetyl-S-(2-cyanoethyl)-l-cysteine were inversely associated with lumbar spine bone mineral density(BMD),while urinary N-acetyl-S-(2-hydroxypropyl)-l-cysteine was positively associated with hip BMD.Additionally,OP odds increased by 46.0%(95%CI:3.9%to 105.1%)per quartile increment in the VOC mixture.AOP analysis identified 53 target genes and 9 target phenotypes,and 5 of 9 target phenotypes were oxidative stress(OS)-related.Literature and the“AOP 482”framework implied the core role of OS in the VOC exposure and prevalent OP association,with the interleukin-6 as themolecular initiating event.Our findings provided a theoretical basis for further investigation.展开更多
Working memory is a core cognitive function that supports goal-directed behavior and complex thought.We developed a spatial working memory and attention test on paired symbols(SWAPS)which has been proved to be a usefu...Working memory is a core cognitive function that supports goal-directed behavior and complex thought.We developed a spatial working memory and attention test on paired symbols(SWAPS)which has been proved to be a useful and valid tool for spatial working memory and attention studies in the fields of cognitive psychology,education,and psychiatry.The repeated administration of working memory capacity tests is common in clinical and research settings.Studies suggest that repeated cognitive tests may improve the performance scores also known as retest effects.The systematic investigation of retest effects in SWAPS is critical for interpreting scientific results,but it is still not fully developed.To address this,we recruited 77 college students aged 18–21 years and used SWAPS comprising 72 trials with different memory loads,learning time,and delay span.We repeated the test once a week for five weeks to investigate the retest effects of SWAPS.There were significant retest effects in the first two tests:the accuracy of the SWAPS tests significantly increased,and then stabilized.These findings provide useful information for researchers to appropriately use or interpret the repeated working memory tests.Further experiments are still needed to clarify the factors that mediate the retest effects,and find out the cognitive mechanism that influences the retest effects.展开更多
基金supported by the Key Program of Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province(LZ20C090001)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32271090,32171031,and 32071044)the China Brain Project(2021ZD0200409).
文摘Social working memory(SWM)—the ability to maintain and manipulate social information in the brain—plays a crucial role in social interactions.However,research on SWM is still in its infancy and is often treated as a unitary construct.In the present study,we propose that SWM can be conceptualized as having two relatively independent components:"externally oriented SWM"(e-SWM)and"internally oriented SWM"(i-SWM).To test this external–internal hypothesis,participants were tasked with memorizing and ranking either facial expressions(e-SWM)or personality traits(i-SWM)associated with images of faces.We then examined the neural correlates of these two SWM components and their functional roles in empathy.The results showed distinct activations as the e-SWM task activated the postcentral and precentral gyri while the i-SWM task activated the precuneus/posterior cingulate cortex and superior frontal gyrus.Distinct multivariate activation patterns were also found within the dorsal medial prefrontal cortex in the two tasks.Moreover,partial least squares analyses combining brain activation and individual differences in empathy showed that e-SWM and i-SWM brain activities were mainly correlated with affective empathy and cognitive empathy,respectively.These findings implicate distinct brain processes as well as functional roles of the two types of SWM,providing support for the internal–external hypothesis of SWM.
基金supported by Texas Alzheimer’s Research and Care Consortium-TARCC 2022-26,The National Football League Players Association-NFLPA,NIH/NIA Grant 1R01 AG072491 to TB and FDP.
文摘Neuroinflammation is a crucial factor in the progression of various diseases,ranging from immune-related conditions such as sepsis to neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease(AD)(Ravichandran and Heneka,2024).This perspective article,which draws on insights from diverse fields including neuroscience,immunology,and pathology,p rovides a critical analysis of ongoing research efforts in inflammasome biology,with specific emphasis on Nod-like receptor(NLR)and pyrin domain-containing protein 3(NLRP3).
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31371042 and 31671164)
文摘Facial and vocal expressions are essential modalities mediating the perception of emotion and social communication.Nonetheless,currently little is known about how emotion perception and its neural substrates differ across facial expression and vocal prosody.To clarify this issue,functional MRI scans were acquired in Study 1,in which participants were asked to discriminate the valence of emotional expression(angry,happy or neutral)from facial,vocal,or bimodal stimuli.In Study 2,we used an affective priming task(unimodal materials as primers and bimodal materials as target)and participants were asked to rate the intensity,valence,and arousal of the targets.Study 1 showed higher accuracy and shorter response latencies in the facial than in the vocal modality for a happy expression.Whole-brain analysis showed enhanced activation during facial compared to vocal emotions in the inferior temporal-occipital regions.Region of interest analysis showed a higher percentage signal change for facial than for vocal anger in the superior temporal sulcus.Study 2 showed that facial relative to vocal priming of anger had a greater influence on perceived emotion for bimodal targets,irrespective of the target valence.These findings suggest that facial expression is associated with enhanced emotion perception compared to equivalent vocal prosodies.
文摘Background: Depressive disorder is often accompanied by physiological changes that may adversely affect the course of medical illness, including an increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines. Methods: We examine the effects of religious cognitive behavioral therapy (RCBT) vs. conventional CBT (CCBT) on pro-/anti-inflammatory indicators and stress hormones in 132 individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) and chronic medical illness who were recruited into a multi-site randomized clinical trial. Biomarkers (C-reactive protein and pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-12-p70), anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL1ra, IL-4, IL-10), and stress hormones (urinary cortisol, epinephrine, norepinephrine) were assessed at baseline, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks. Differential effects of baseline religiosity on treatment response were also examined, along with effects of religiosity on changes in biomarkers over time independent of treatment group. Biomarker levels were log transformed where possible to normalize distributions. Mixed models were used to examine trajectories of change. Results: CRP increased and IL-4, IL-10, and epinephrine decreased over time, mostly in the opposite direction expected (except epinephrine). No significant difference between RCBT and CCBT was found on average trajectory of change in any biomarkers. Religiosity interacted with treatment group in effects on IL-6, such that CCBT was more effective than RCBT in lowering lL-6 in those with low religiosity whereas RCBT appeared to be more effective than CCBT in those with high religiosity. Higher baseline religiosity also tended to predict an increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines INF-γ and IL-12 (p70) and urinary cortisol over time. Conclusions: RCBT and CCBT had similar effects on stress biomarkers. CCBT was more effective in reducing IL-6 levels in those with low religiosity, whereas RCBT tended to be more effective in those with high religiosity. Unexpectedly, higher baseline religiosity was associated with an increase in several stress biomarkers.
文摘Purpose: This study analyzed treatment effects of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) group counseling intervention on HIV transmission risk behavior, depression, anxiety, and alcohol use in HIV perinatally infected adolescents attending an HIV clinical care center in Uganda, Africa. Method: A total of 186 adolescents were randomly assigned to an experimental or control arm and assigned into groups of 11 - 16 adolescents. The experimental groups received an 80-minute CBT based weekly intervention for 8 consecutive weeks, while the control groups received only standard group care. Data from self report assessments were analyzed at pre- and post-test using repeated measures of analysis of variance. The participants, analyzed by variable, included 115 for sexual behavior, 106 for depression, 88 for anxiety, and 115 for alcohol use. Results: The results from the study show a large significant difference (p = 0.006) between the experimental and control groups on the anxiety variable. There were no significant differences between the experimental and control groups on the variables of sexual behavior (p = 0.876), depression (p = 0.700), and alcohol use (p = 0.815). There was an indication of reduced levels of HIV sexual transmission risk behavior, depression, and alcohol use levels in the participants in both the experimental and control groups. Conclusions: Risky sexual behavior places HIV perinatally infected adolescents at risk of re-infection, sexually transmitted diseases, and transmitting HIV to their sexual partners. CBT group counseling intervention equipped the participating adolescents with appropriate life skills to deal with psychological distress and anxiety often seen in their lives and may be useful in routine medical care to reduce transmission risks and improve wellness and call for its incorporation into HIV preventive programs and counselor education.
文摘Background: We examined family health history (FHH) as a public health intervention tool in undergraduate students. We hypothesized that the FHH assignment would positively relate to students’ FHH knowledge and health and healthcare-seeking behavioral change. Methods: Health professional students’ (n = 103) pre/post-test surveys and research papers were collected in 2011-2012, from a mid-western and southern university in the United States of America, using mixed methods research. Results: The majority of students were aged 18 - 30, women, White, had healthcare access and health insurance, and awareness of the term FHH. Significant logistic regression relationships existed between: 1) helping students understand important strengths and weaknesses in their health and quality of life and outcomes of talking with family and doctors about FHH;and 2) improving students’ understanding of what they needed to do to maintain their health and the outcome statement “FHH tells you about inherited genes.” Key themes from the research papers included actions and FHH and proposed behavioral changes. Conclusions: Quantitative findings supported the relationship between students’ assignment evaluation and knowledge change, while qualitative findings supported relationships between assignment evaluation and knowledge and behavioral change. This study highlights regional differences in students’ FHH and the need to address family support barriers to behavioral change.
文摘Objective: Anxiety disorders of childhood are prevalent, debilitating conditions that do not always respond to existing treatments. Attentional biases towards threatening stimuli have been reported in anxious children and hypothesized to interfere with treatment response. Therefore, we examined such biases in children with anxiety disorders in relation to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) outcomes. Method: Thirty-eight children diagnosed with anxiety disorders in a specialized clinic (21 girls and 17 boys;age = 10.50 ± 1.11 years) and 36 unaffected community controls (19 girls and 17 boys;age = 10.20 ± 1.07 years) participated. Participants completed standardized questionnaire measures of anxiety and a probe position task (PPT) with facial cues. This task often reveals a response slowing effect related to threatening faces in vulnerable individuals. Children with anxiety disorders repeated these measures after completing CBT. Results: Groups did not differ in performance on the PPT, but angry/calm incongruent difference scores were significantly associated with self-reports of social anxiety and state anxiety. When controlling for pre-CBT anxiety levels, incongruent difference scores involving angry faces predicted post-CBT anxiety disorders index scores on the Multidimensional Anxiety Scale for Children. PPT scores did not change significantly with CBT. Conclusions: Attentional bias towards threat on the PPT task may predict response to CBT and appears linked to social anxiety. Interventions to ameliorate this bias merit further study, as they might improve treatment outcomes for anxious, especially socially anxious, children.
文摘In January 2025,the United States issued executive orders that could potentially curtail lesbian,gay,bisexual,transgender,queer,and other sexual and gender minorities(LGBTQ+)rights and federal aid to developing countries,such as public health programs under the United States Agency for International Development(USAID)[1,2].In the Philippines,USAID has played an important role in funding and supporting initiatives to address the country’s local HIV epidemic[2,3].
文摘HIV-related stigma,discrimination,and other forms of oppression can severely undermine adherence to antiretroviral therapy(ART)among people living with HIV[1].For example,Kerr et al.reveal that perceived discrimination based on sexual orientation in healthcare settings significantly reduces ART adherence[1].This highlights the urgent need for targeted strategies to address stigma,discrimination,and social marginalization,especially within healthcare facilities,to improve HIV care outcomes.
文摘The United States Food and Drug Administration's(FDA's)August 2024 determination that an additional phase Ⅱ study will be required to consider the approval of midomafetamine for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder(PTSD)could delay the potential approval of this promising treatment by several years.
文摘Objectives:Parentification,a role reversal where children assume age-inappropriate duties in the family,is a significant childhood adversity often linked to disrupted developmental trajectories and poor mental health outcomes.Yet the complexity of parentification,influenced by various contextual factors,obscures a comprehensive understanding of its psychological consequences and its mental health aspects.The paper aims to map up-to-date research,synthesize key findings,and identify critical knowledge gaps.Methods:To that end,a systematic search was performed in Scopus,PsycINFO,PubMed,and EBSCO databases,and data was extracted and reviewed by two reviewers.The search yielded 29 studies,including 9 qualitative,1 mixed,and 19 quantitative studies that examined the mental health aspects of parentification,from various countries of origin.Results:Parentification,often arising from contexts like parental illness or substance abuse,is linked to varied mental and physical health outcomes.These outcomes are strongly moderated by the adolescent’s subjective perception of their role and the presence of protective factors like strong sibling relationships.The review also identified a clear pathway for the intergenerational transmission of parentification,where a parent’s own history was found to impact their parenting cognitions.Conclusion:This review concludes that future longitudinal research should move beyond negative or positive outcomes of parentification and investigate the mediating and moderating mechanisms that play a crucial role in the outcomes.Furthermore,the absence of prevalence studies on parentification is a notable limitation,and as a result,the size of the affected population remains unknown.Further research is also needed to identify potential protective factors in various circumstances.
文摘To the Editor:Salam et al.found that more than half(54.2%)of Indonesian parents surveyed were willing to pay for a dengue vaccination[1].Using the Health Belief Model,the study identified four constructs that significantly influenced willingness to pay,including Perceived Susceptibility,Perceived Severity,Perceived Benefits,and Cues to Action[1].Interestingly,Perceived Barriers,including cost and potential side effects,did not show a significant effect[1].
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32270529 to L.F.L.32270510 to F.D.T.)+2 种基金STI2030-Majior Projects(2022ZD0205101 to F.D.T.)Natural Science Foundation of Henan Province(252300420211 to Y.J.L.)Key Scientific Research Project of Higher Education Institutions in Henan Province(23A180001 to L.F.L.)#。
文摘Social hierarchies are central to the organizational structure of group-living species,shaping individual physiology,behavior,and social interactions.Dopaminergic(DA)systems,particularly within the ventral tegmental area(VTA)and dorsal raphe nucleus(DR),have been linked to motivation and competitive behaviors,yet their region-specific contributions to social dominance remain insufficiently defined.This study investigated the role of VTA and DR DA neurons in regulating social dominance in sexually naïve male C57BL/6J mice.Stable hierarchies were established using the tube test,after which both dominant and subordinate mice exhibited elevated c-Fos expression within the VTA and DR.Notably,dominant mice displayed significantly greater c-Fos activation in DR DA neurons compared to subordinates.Fiber photometry revealed that DA neurons in both regions were activated during proactive push behaviors and inhibited during passive retreats,with DR neurons showing stronger activation during dominance-related actions.Chemogenetic inhibition of DR DA neurons in dominant mice reduced their social rank,whereas activation in subordinates elevated their rank.In contrast,chemogenetic modulation of VTA DA neurons had no significant effect on social dominance.Manipulation of DA neurons in both regions produced rank-dependent changes in specific anxiety-like behavioral phenotypes.These findings highlight the distinct roles of DR and VTA DA neurons in social hierarchy regulation,identifying DR DA neurons as a critical component in the modulation of social dominance.
文摘BACKGROUND Burnout syndrome is a significant issue among healthcare professionals worldwide,marked by depersonalization,emotional exhaustion,and a reduced sense of personal achievement.This psychological and physical burden profoundly affects healthcare professionals'quality of care and overall well-being.In Somalia,where the healthcare system faces numerous challenges,the escalating demand for medical services and inadequate resources,coupled with overwhelming workloads,long hours,and high-stress levels,make healthcare providers particularly vulnerable to burnout syndrome.This,in turn,affects both the mental health of healthcare personnel and the quality of care they provide.AIM To examine the prevalence and determinants of burnout syndrome among healthcare practitioners in Mogadishu,Somalia.METHODS This cross-sectional prospective study was performed among 246 healthcare providers employed at a tertiary care hospital in Mogadishu,Somalia,who were recruited via random sampling.Data were collected using questionnaires that covered sociodemographic,psychological,work-related characteristics,and burnout syndrome.Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the variables that correlated with burnout syndrome.The results were presented using adjusted odds ratios(AORs),95%CIs,and P values,with a cutoff of 0.05 for identifying significant associations.RESULTS Among the participants,24%(95%CI:18.8%–29.8%)exhibited symptoms of burnout syndrome.Factors associated with burnout included female gender(AOR=6.60;95%CI:2.29-19.04),being married(AOR=3.07;95%CI:1.14-8.28),being divorced or widowed(AOR=5.84;95%CI:1.35-25.35),working more than 7 night shifts(AOR=3.19;95%CI:1.30–7.82),having less than 5 years of job experience(AOR=5.28;95%CI:1.29-21.65),experiencing poor sleep quality(AOR=5.29;95%CI:1.88-14.89),and exhibiting depressive(AOR=4.46;95%CI:1.59-12.53)and anxiety symptoms(AOR=7.34;95%CI:2.49-21.60).CONCLUSION This study found that nearly one in four healthcare professionals suffers from burnout syndrome.Improving sleep quality,monitoring,and providing mental health support could enhance their well-being and patient care.
基金financially supported by the Vice-Rector’s Office for Research and Transfer at the University of Granada(Grant Ref.PPJIB2023-084)Spanish Ministry of Universities(Grants Ref.FPU20/02739 and FPU20/01987)+1 种基金Maria de Maeztu Excellence Unit Program funded by the Ministry of Science,Innovation and Ministry of Universities attached to the State Research Agency(Grant Ref.CEX2023-001312-M/AEI/10.13039/501100011033)the Excellence Unit funded by the University of Granada(Grant Ref.UCE-PP2023-11/UGR.).
文摘Background:University students face significant challenges inmaintaining healthy physical activity(PA)and dietary habits,and they often fall short of global health recommendations.Psychological factors such as social physique anxiety,body image concerns,and self-objectification may act as barriers to PA engagement,influencing both mental and physical health.The present study constructed a structural equation model(SEM)to examine the relationship between body image-related psychological factors and resistance to PA in university students from southern Spain.Methods:A cross-sectional and correlational study was conducted with 519 university students(74%females,26%males;Mean age=21.14±3.26 years)from universities in Granada and Malaga(Spain).Data were collected between May and October 2024 via online questionnaires that assessed PA engagement,Mediterranean diet adherence,eating disorder symptoms,body image-related psychological factors(social physique anxiety,appearance control beliefs,body surveillance,body shame,and self-esteem),and sociodemographic characteristics.SEM was performed to analyze relationships and sex-based differences.Results:Social physique anxietywas positively associated with body shame,body surveillance,and eating disorders,and negatively associated with self-esteem,PA engagement,and appearance control beliefs(all p<0.001).Appearance control beliefs were positively related to self-esteem,body surveillance,and PA(all p<0.05).Body surveillance was negatively linked to PA and positively linked to body shame.Mediterranean diet adherence and eating disorders were positively associated with PA(all p<0.001).Sex-based differences were observed in the model.Conclusion:Body image-related psychological factors may act as barriers to PA among university students.Interventions should integrate mental health promotion and consider sex differences.
基金HAALSI(Health and Aging in Africa:A Longitudinal Study of an INDEPTH Community in South Africa)is sponsored by the National Institute on Aging(grant number 5P01AG041710-05)and is conducted by the Harvard Center for Population and Development Studies in Partnership with Witwatersrand UniversityThe Agincourt HDSS was supported by the Wellcome Trust,UK(058893/Z/99/A,069683/Z/02/Z,085477/Z/08/Z and085477/B/08/Z),the University of the Witwatersrand and South African Medical Research Council.
文摘Objectives Few studies have investigated longitudinal associations of loneliness with health outcomes in Africa.This study aimed to assess the longitudinal associations between loneliness and mental and physical health among aging adults in South Africa.Methods Data from the 7-year longitudinal Health and Ageing in Africa(HAALSI)study conducted in South Africa were used in the analysis(analytic sample:n=3707,aged 40 years and older).Loneliness was measured with one question.Longitudinal relationships between loneliness and each health outcome were estimated using Generalized Estimating Equations analysis(GEE),hazard ratios(HRs)(95%CI)were used to determine the relationship between loneliness and 7-year mortality in the entire sample,and correlations between incident health outcomes and loneliness were evaluated using logistic regressions.Results The prevalence of loneliness was 12.1%in 2015,16.9%in 2019,and 16.3%in 2022.Multivariable analysis showed that loneliness was positively associated with the prevalence and/or incidence of four poor mental health indicators(e.g.,poor sleep quality,AOR=1.53,95%CI:1.30–1.80),four physical ill-health indicators(e.g.,incident kidney disease,AOR=2.50,95%CI:1.41–4.42),mortality(Hazard Ratio=1.20,95%CI=1.04–1.39),and three poor behavioral health indicators(e.g.,current tobacco use,AOR=1.21,95%CI=1.04–1.42).Conclusion The study discovered that several outcomes related to mental,physical,and behavioral health were associated with loneliness.Enhancing the detection and management of loneliness could lower mental and physical illness in aging adults in South Africa.
文摘Background:Mental health literacy(MHL)refers to one’s knowledge and understanding of mental health disorders and their treatments.This literacy may be influenced by cultural norms and values that shape individuals’experiences,beliefs,attitudes,and behaviors regarding mental health.This study focuses on adapting the Mental health literacy scale(MHLS)for use in the multicultural context of Israel.Objectives include validating its construct,assessing its accuracy in measuring MHL in this diverse setting and examining and comparing levels of MHL across different cultural groups.Methods:The data collection included 1057 participants,representing all the ethnic groups of the Israeli population aged 18 and over.The tools included the MHLS and a demographic questionnaire.Confirmatory factor analysis(CFA)was employed to assess the original structure of the MHLS.Results:The results revealed that after evaluating the original MHLS,five items were excluded,leading to the validation of a modified version—Israeli mental health scale(IMHLS)with four factors and 25 items.CFA and reliability analyses supported an established and robust four-factor model.Significant ethnic differences in MHLS scores were identified,with Muslim participants showing the highest familiarity with mental disorders,followed by Druze and Christian participants,while Jewish participants had the lowest familiarity.Conclusion:The study concluded that the IMHLS is a valid and reliable tool for assessing MHL in Israel’s diverse and multicultural population.The revised scale better reflects the cultural nuances of the Israeli context.The significant ethnic differences that the study revealed in IMHLS emphasize the importance of culturally sensitive mental health interventions tailored to different ethnic groups in Israel.
文摘Objective:To explore the perspectives of high-risk pregnant women regarding the home care program for high-risk pregnancies.Methods:This qualitative study was conducted in a university hospital and 5 comprehensive health centers in Ahvaz,Iran,from February 2023 to July 2023.The sampling method used was purposive sampling considering the maximum possible diversity,which continued until data saturation.11 in-depth and semistructured interviews were conducted with high-risk pregnant women.Data were simultaneously analysed using Graneheim and Lundman content analysis by MAXQDA version 20 software.Results:Data analysis extracted 3 themes,12 categories,and 26 subcategories.The themes and categories were“high-risk pregnancy and related issues(pursuing treatment and paying attention to the high-risk situation by pregnant women,psychological aspect of high-risk pregnancy on pregnant women and caregivers,emotional and physical aspects of high-risk pregnancy,the consequences of high-risk pregnancy on the people around them and empowerment of high-risk pregnant women)”,“support dimension(family and community support for high-risk pregnant women)”,and“framework of program(acculturalization,means and equipment,security,manpower and the necessary arrangements for the home care)”.Conclusions:High-risk pregnancy affects various aspects of the lives of high-risk pregnant women and their families.Creating the necessary conditions for providing care at home plays a vital role in supporting high-risk pregnant women and removing related obstacles to receiving prenatal care in person.It will be especially beneficial for high-risk pregnant women in low-income areas.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82273711).
文摘Existing evidence has demonstrated the association between exposure to volatile organic compounds(VOCs)and osteoporosis(OP)risk,but the underlying mechanistic framework remains unclear.This study aimed to explore potential pathways using adverse outcome pathway(AOP)analysis,and evidence this association in middle-to-old-aged American adults using the updated National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data.Multivariable-adjusted general linear and weighted quantile sum models were employed to analyze associations of VOC metabolites(VOCMs),representing internal VOCs exposure levels,with OP-related phenotypes.An AOP framework based on network analysis was developed by extracting target genes and phenotypes.Among 3555 American adults aged≥40 years(539 OP participants),we found that increasing urinary 3-and 4-methylhippuric acid,N-acetyl-S-(n-propyl)-l-cysteine(BPMA),and N-acetyl-S-(3-hydroxypropyl)-l-cysteine were associated with elevated OP odds with odds ratios(ORs)(95%confidence intervals,95%CIs)being 1.254(1.016 to 1.548),1.182(1.014 to 1.377),and 1.244(1.029 to 1.505),respectively,per standard deviation.Urinary BPMA and N-acetyl-S-(2-cyanoethyl)-l-cysteine were inversely associated with lumbar spine bone mineral density(BMD),while urinary N-acetyl-S-(2-hydroxypropyl)-l-cysteine was positively associated with hip BMD.Additionally,OP odds increased by 46.0%(95%CI:3.9%to 105.1%)per quartile increment in the VOC mixture.AOP analysis identified 53 target genes and 9 target phenotypes,and 5 of 9 target phenotypes were oxidative stress(OS)-related.Literature and the“AOP 482”framework implied the core role of OS in the VOC exposure and prevalent OP association,with the interleukin-6 as themolecular initiating event.Our findings provided a theoretical basis for further investigation.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.91632103)the Shanghai Education Commission Research and Innovation Program(No.2019-01-07-00-02-E00037)+2 种基金the Program of Shanghai Subject Chief Scientist(No.17XD1401700)the Higher Education Disciplinary Innovation Programthe“Eastern Scholar”Project。
文摘Working memory is a core cognitive function that supports goal-directed behavior and complex thought.We developed a spatial working memory and attention test on paired symbols(SWAPS)which has been proved to be a useful and valid tool for spatial working memory and attention studies in the fields of cognitive psychology,education,and psychiatry.The repeated administration of working memory capacity tests is common in clinical and research settings.Studies suggest that repeated cognitive tests may improve the performance scores also known as retest effects.The systematic investigation of retest effects in SWAPS is critical for interpreting scientific results,but it is still not fully developed.To address this,we recruited 77 college students aged 18–21 years and used SWAPS comprising 72 trials with different memory loads,learning time,and delay span.We repeated the test once a week for five weeks to investigate the retest effects of SWAPS.There were significant retest effects in the first two tests:the accuracy of the SWAPS tests significantly increased,and then stabilized.These findings provide useful information for researchers to appropriately use or interpret the repeated working memory tests.Further experiments are still needed to clarify the factors that mediate the retest effects,and find out the cognitive mechanism that influences the retest effects.
