Study on the impact of comprehensive geriatric assessment on anxiety and depression in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients

BACKGROUND Psychological factors such as anxiety and depression will not only aggravate the symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD)patients and reduce the quality of life of patients,but also affect the treatment effect and long-term prognosis.Therefore,it is of great significance to explore the clinical application of senile comprehensive assessment in the treatment of COPD and its influence on psychological factors such as anxiety and depression.AIM To explore the clinical application of comprehensive geriatric assessment in COPD care and its impact on anxiety and depression in elderly patents.METHODS In this retrospective study,60 patients with COPD who were hospitalized in our hospital from 2019 to 2020 were randomly divided into two groups with 30 patients in each group.The control group was given routine nursing,and the observation group was given comprehensive assessment.Clinical symptoms,quality of life[COPD assessment test(CAT)score],anxiety and depression Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale(HAMA)and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale(HAMD)were compared between the two groups.RESULTS CAT scores in the observation group decreased from an average of 24.5 points at admission to an average of 18.3 points at discharge,and in the control group from an average of 24.7 points at admission to an average of 18.3 points at discharge.The average score was 22.1(P<0.05).In the observation group,HAMA scores decreased from 14.2 points at admission to 8.6 points at discharge,and HAMD scores decreased from 13.8 points at admission to 7.4 points at discharge.The mean HAMD scores in the control group decreased from an average of 14.5 at admission to an average of 12.3 at discharge,and from an average of 14.1 at admission to an average of 11.8 at discharge.CONCLUSION The application of comprehensive geriatric assessment in COPD care has a significant effect on improving patients'clinical symptoms and quality of life,and can effectively reduce patients'anxiety and depression.

Predictive effect of lipopolysaccharide-stimulated inflammatory cytokines on symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder

BACKGROUND Generalized anxiety disorder(GAD)is a relatively common mental disorder.Recently,inflammation,an important factor for the development of depression,has attracted increasing attention.Several studies have shown that inflammatory cytokines can affect the pathophysiological processes of several nervous system diseases.We hypothesized that there is a correlation between the levels of lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-stimulated inflammatory cytokines and the clinical symptoms of GAD.AIM To investigate the predictive effect of LPS-stimulated inflammatory cytokines on symptoms of GAD.METHODS This was a cross-sectional study in which 89 patients with GAD diagnosed at The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University from January 2022 to December 2022 and 70 individuals without anxiety and depression(controls)during the same period were included.Fasting venous blood was collected from all the subjects in heparin tubes,and another 3 ml of blood was supplemented with LPS(10 ng/ml).The plasma levels of 12 cytokines[Interleukin(IL)-1β,IL-2,IL-4,IL-5,IL-6,IL-8,IL-10,tumor necrosis factor(TNF)-α,interferon(IFN)-γ,IL-17A,IL-12p70,and IFN-α]were detected.RESULTS Post-LPS stimulation,the levels of IL-1β,IL-6,IL-8,IL-10,and TNF-αin both the control and GAD groups were significantly elevated above those in the nonstimulated groups,with IL-6 and IL-8 showing marked increases.Increases in IL-8 and TNF-αwere statistically significant in the GAD group(P<0.05).IL-1β,IL-6,IL-8,IL-10,and TNF-αwere found to be significantly correlated with Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale(HAMA)scores(P<0.05).A negative correlation was observed between IL-10 levels and HAMA scores.Further analysis revealed that TNF-αwas associated with mental anxiety,whereas IL-1β,IL-8,and IL-10 were associated with physical anxiety symptoms,with IL-10 showing a negative correlation with physical anxiety.IL-6 was associated with both mental and physical aspects of anxiety.CONCLUSION The physical symptoms of GAD are related to inflammatory factors.IL-1β,IL-8,IL-10,and TNF-a can be used as predictors of physical or mental anxiety in patients with GAD.

Comparing pharmacotherapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation for the treatment of anxiety and depression after aortic dissection surgery

BACKGROUND Aortic coarctation is a potentially fatal condition that is primarily treated surgically.Despite successful procedures,patients frequently experience postoperative anxiety and depression,which can hinder recovery and worsen outcomes.Pharmacological interventions,such as 5-hydroxytryptamine(5-HT)and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors,are commonly prescribed;however,their efficacy alone or in combination with non-invasive brain stimulation techniques,such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation(TMS),remains unclear.AIM To assess the effect of medications and TMS on post-aortic surgery anxiety and depression.METHODS We analyzed the outcomes of 151 patients with anxiety and depression who were hospitalized for aortic dissection between January 2020 and September 2022.Using the random number table method,75 and 76 patients were allocated to the normal control and study groups,respectively.All the patients were treated using routine procedures.The control group was administered anti-anxiety and antidepression drugs,whereas the study group was treated with TMS in addition to these medications.The patients in both groups showed improvement after two courses of treatment.The Hamilton Anxiety Scale(HAMA)and the Hamilton Depression Scale(HAMD)were used to assess anxiety and depression,respectively.The serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor(BDNF)and 5-HT were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index(PSQI)was used to estimate sleep quality,and the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status(RBANS)was used to assess cognitive function.RESULTS The HAMD and HAMA scores reduced in 2 groups,with the study group achieving a lower level than control(P<0.05).In the control group,43 patients recovered,17 showed improvement,and 15 were deemed invalid.In the study group,52 recovered,20 improved,and four were invalid.The efficacy rate in study group was 94.74%compared to 80.00%in control(P<0.05).The BDNF and 5-HT levels increased in both groups,with higher levels observed in the experimental group(P<0.05).Moreover,the PSQI scores decreased in 2 groups,but were lower in the intervention group than control(P<0.05).The scores of the RBANS items increased,with the study group scoring higher than control(P<0.05).CONCLUSION Combining anti-anxiety and anti-depressive drugs with repetitive TMS after aortic surgery may enhance mood and treatment outcomes,offering a promising clinical approach.

Clinical-DNA Correlates of Anxiety in Patients with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

Introduction: Anxiety disorders have a lifetime prevalence of 34% with a similar level of heritability (31%) yet lack objective markers that could differentiate patients with underlying conditions. Up to 60%-70% of patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome have anxiety that meets criteria of generalized anxiety disorder, their clinical-DNA findings worth examining as biomarkers for patients with generalized anxiety. Method: Of the 1899 patients diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, 1261 were systematically evaluated for 80 history and 40 physical findings and separated into 826 who reported anxiety and 435 who did not. The most consistently reported or management-directing 60 of these clinical findings were, along with variations in genes relevant to these disorders, examined for association with anxiety. Results: Among the 30 anxiety- associated findings judged most predictive of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome in patients with anxiety were expected ones of adrenergic stimulation (difficulty concentrating-87% frequency and 1.26 anxiety/no anxiety ratio;chronic fatigue-84%, 1.17;sleep issues 69%, 1.52 that are criteria for generalized anxiety disorder) or of cholinergic suppression (e.g., frequent nausea 64%, 1.26). Less associated but more discriminating for underlying disease were those reflective of neuromuscular impact (e.g., chronic daily headaches 76%, 1.12);hypermobility (e.g., awareness of flexibility 72%, 1.03), or skin changes (e.g., elasticity around jaw 71%, 1.06). Anxiety-associated DNA variants included 54 of 88 in collagen type I/V/VII/IX genes, 14 of 16 in sodium channel SCN9A/10A/ 11A genes, 59 of 85 in POLG/MT-DNA genes, and 21 of 28 in profilaggrin- FLG genes that respectively impacted tissue laxity, sensory neural, autonomic-mitochondrial, and autonomic-inflammatory functions. Conclusion: Analysis of pathogenetic mechanisms in Ehlers-Danlos syndrome selected some 50 clinical-DNA findings useful for its diagnosis in those with generalized anxiety disorders.

Vibration-reduced anxiety-like behavior relies on ameliorating abnormalities of the somatosensory cortex and medial prefrontal cortex

Tibetan singing bowls emit low-frequency sounds and produce perceptible harmonic tones and vibrations through manual tapping.The sounds the singing bowls produce have been shown to enhance relaxation and reduce anxiety.However,the underlying mechanism remains unclear.In this study,we used chronic restraint stress or sleep deprivation to establish mouse models of anxiety that exhibit anxiety-like behaviors.We then supplied treatment with singing bowls in a bottomless cage placed on the top of a cushion.We found that unlike in humans,the combination of harmonic tones and vibrations did not improve anxietylike behaviors in mice,while individual vibration components did.Additionally,the vibration of singing bowls increased the level of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor 1 in the somatosensory cortex and prefrontal cortex of the mice,decreased the level ofγ-aminobutyric acid A(GABA)receptorα1 subtype,reduced the level of CaMKII in the prefrontal cortex,and increased the number of GABAergic interneurons.At the same time,electrophysiological tests showed that the vibration of singing bowls significantly reduced the abnormal low-frequency gamma oscillation peak frequency in the medial prefrontal cortex caused by stress restraint pressure and sleep deprivation.Results from this study indicate that the vibration of singing bowls can alleviate anxiety-like behaviors by reducing abnormal molecular and electrophysiological events in somatosensory and medial prefrontal cortex.

Use of cognitive-behavioral career coaching to reduce work anxiety and depression in public employees

BACKGROUND Public employees worldwide are increasingly concerned about work anxiety and depression.Cognitive-behavioral career coaching has emerged as a promising strategy for addressing these mental health disorders,which can negatively impact on a person's overall well-being and performance.AIM To examine whether cognitive-behavioral career coaching reduces work anxiety and depression among Nigerian public employees.METHODS A total of 120 public employees(n=60)suffering from severe anxiety and depression were randomly assigned to the treatment or control groups in this study.Cognitive behavioral coaching was provided twice a week to those in the treatment group,whereas no treatment was given to those in the control group.As part of the study,the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scales and Beck Depression Inventory were used to collect data.RESULTS Analysis of covariance of the data from participants indicates a significant effect of cognitive-behavioral career coaching on work anxiety and depression.CONCLUSION Insights into the underlying mechanisms by which cognitive behavior career coaching exerts its effects have been gained from this study.Also,the study has gathered valuable data that can inform future practice and guide the development of strategies for supporting mental health at work.

Navigating the intersection of psychiatry and ophthalmology:A comprehensive review of depression and anxiety management in glaucoma patients

Glaucoma,a prevalent and debilitating eye disease,has long been associated with vision impairment and blindness.However,recent research has shed light on the often-underestimated psychological dimensions of this condition.Anxiety and depression,two pervasive psychiatric comorbidities,have been increasingly recognized among glaucoma patients.This comprehensive review aims to explore the intricate relationship between psychiatry and ophthalmology,in the context of managing depression and anxiety in glaucoma patients.By meticulously examining peer-reviewed literature,we synthesize current knowledge on the prevalence,risk factors,and underlying mechanisms of anxiety and depression in glaucoma.The evidence reveals that glaucoma patients face an elevated risk of experiencing these mood disorders.Factors such as progressive vision loss,complex medication regimens,and the fear of further visual deterioration contribute to their vulnerability.Moreover,we delve into the bidirectional relationship between glaucoma and mood disorders,shedding light on the complex interplay between ocular and emotional health.Our review investigates the implications of anxiety and depression on glaucoma management,including their potential impact on treatment adherence,disease progression,and overall quality of life.We also explore the neurobiological pathways linking glaucoma and mood disorders,providing a foundation for future research and potential therapeutic interventions.In conclusion,recognizing the psychological burden carried by glaucoma patients is essential for holistic and patient-centered care.This review underscores the pressing need for integrated approaches that bring together ophthalmological and psychiatric expertise to optimize the well-being of individuals facing the challenges of glaucoma.By addressing anxiety and depression in glaucoma care,healthcare providers can enhance the overall quality of life for these patients,ultimately leading to improved outcomes and a brighter future for those affected by this condition.This review offers valuable insight for healthcare practitioners and researchers,providing a concise overview of key topics and research in the field of managing depression and anxiety in glaucoma patients.

Depression and anxiety among cancer patients visiting a tertiary care cancer hospital

BACKGROUND Cancer patients frequently experience psychological problems related to reactions to cancer diagnosis,cancer type and stage,treatment effects,recurrence,fear of end-of-life,survivorship,and financial burden.Depression and anxiety are both psychological and physiological disturbances among cancer patients.AIM To assess the prevalence of depression and anxiety among cancer patients attending a tertiary care cancer hospital.METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted at Bhaktapur Cancer Hospital in Kathmandu Valley among 220 cancer patients aged from 18 years to 70 years.Ethical approval was taken from the Institutional Review Committee of CiST College.Convenient sampling was used to interview patients with the standardized Patient-Health Questionnaire(PHQ-9)for Depression and Hospital Anxiety and Depression sub-scale(HADS-A)for anxiety.Epi-Data was used for data entry and transferred to SPSS Version 25 for analysis.RESULTS The study revealed that of 220 patients,most of the respondents belonged to the age group 51-60 years.More than half 131(59.6%)of the respondents were female,most of them had depression,and one-third had anxiety.Among the respondents,124(56.4%)had mild depression,70(31.8%)had moderate depression,and 3(1.3%)had severe depression;79(35.9%)had mild anxiety,64(29.1%)had moderate anxiety,and 4(1.8%)had severe anxiety.CONCLUSION Most respondents were depressed and one-third had anxiety.More than half and nearly one-third had mild and moderate depression,respectively,and nearly one-third had mild and moderate anxiety,which is higher than other studies.

Analysis of risk factors leading to anxiety and depression in patients with prostate cancer after castration and the construction of a risk prediction model

BACKGROUND Cancer patients often suffer from severe stress reactions psychologically,such as anxiety and depression.Prostate cancer(PC)is one of the common cancer types,with most patients diagnosed at advanced stages that cannot be treated by radical surgery and which are accompanied by complications such as bodily pain and bone metastasis.Therefore,attention should be given to the mental health status of PC patients as well as physical adverse events in the course of clinical treatment.AIM To analyze the risk factors leading to anxiety and depression in PC patients after castration and build a risk prediction model.METHODS A retrospective analysis was performed on the data of 120 PC cases treated in Xi'an People's Hospital between January 2019 and January 2022.The patient cohort was divided into a training group(n=84)and a validation group(n=36)at a ratio of 7:3.The patients’anxiety symptoms and depression levels were assessed 2 wk after surgery with the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale(SAS)and the Selfrating Depression Scale(SDS),respectively.Logistic regression was used to analyze the risk factors affecting negative mood,and a risk prediction model was constructed.RESULTS In the training group,35 patients and 37 patients had an SAS score and an SDS score greater than or equal to 50,respectively.Based on the scores,we further subclassified patients into two groups:a bad mood group(n=35)and an emotional stability group(n=49).Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that marital status,castration scheme,and postoperative Visual Analogue Scale(VAS)score were independent risk factors affecting a patient's bad mood(P<0.05).In the training and validation groups,patients with adverse emotions exhibited significantly higher risk scores than emotionally stable patients(P<0.0001).The area under the curve(AUC)of the risk prediction model for predicting bad mood in the training group was 0.743,the specificity was 70.96%,and the sensitivity was 66.03%,while in the validation group,the AUC,specificity,and sensitivity were 0.755,66.67%,and 76.19%,respectively.The Hosmer-Lemeshow test showed aχ^(2) of 4.2856,a P value of 0.830,and a C-index of 0.773(0.692-0.854).The calibration curve revealed that the predicted curve was basically consistent with the actual curve,and the calibration curve showed that the prediction model had good discrimination and accuracy.Decision curve analysis showed that the model had a high net profit.CONCLUSION In PC patients,marital status,castration scheme,and postoperative pain(VAS)score are important factors affecting postoperative anxiety and depression.The logistic regression model can be used to successfully predict the risk of adverse psychological emotions.

Increased excitatory amino acid transporter 2 levels in basolateral amygdala astrocytes mediate chronic stress–induced anxiety-like behavior

The conventional perception of astrocytes as mere supportive cells within the brain has recently been called into question by empirical evidence, which has revealed their active involvement in regulating brain function and encoding behaviors associated with emotions.Specifically, astrocytes in the basolateral amygdala have been found to play a role in the modulation of anxiety-like behaviors triggered by chronic stress. Nevertheless, the precise molecular mechanisms by which basolateral amygdala astrocytes regulate chronic stress–induced anxiety-like behaviors remain to be fully elucidated. In this study, we found that in a mouse model of anxiety triggered by unpredictable chronic mild stress, the expression of excitatory amino acid transporter 2 was upregulated in the basolateral amygdala. Interestingly, our findings indicate that the targeted knockdown of excitatory amino acid transporter 2 specifically within the basolateral amygdala astrocytes was able to rescue the anxiety-like behavior in mice subjected to stress. Furthermore, we found that the overexpression of excitatory amino acid transporter 2 in the basolateral amygdala, whether achieved through intracranial administration of excitatory amino acid transporter 2agonists or through injection of excitatory amino acid transporter 2-overexpressing viruses with GfaABC1D promoters, evoked anxiety-like behavior in mice. Our single-nucleus RNA sequencing analysis further confirmed that chronic stress induced an upregulation of excitatory amino acid transporter 2 specifically in astrocytes in the basolateral amygdala. Moreover, through in vivo calcium signal recordings, we found that the frequency of calcium activity in the basolateral amygdala of mice subjected to chronic stress was higher compared with normal mice.After knocking down the expression of excitatory amino acid transporter 2 in the basolateral amygdala, the frequency of calcium activity was not significantly increased, and anxiety-like behavior was obviously mitigated. Additionally, administration of an excitatory amino acid transporter 2 inhibitor in the basolateral amygdala yielded a notable reduction in anxiety level among mice subjected to stress. These results suggest that basolateral amygdala astrocytic excitatory amino acid transporter 2 plays a role in in the regulation of unpredictable chronic mild stress-induced anxiety-like behavior by impacting the activity of local glutamatergic neurons, and targeting excitatory amino acid transporter 2 in the basolateral amygdala holds therapeutic promise for addressing anxiety disorders.

Preclinical and clinical evidence of the association of colibactinproducing Escherichia coli with anxiety and depression in colon cancer

BACKGROUND The association between the intestinal microbiota and psychiatric disorders is becoming increasingly apparent.The gut microbiota contributes to colorectal carcinogenesis(CRC),as demonstrated with colibactin-producing Escherichia coli(CoPEC).AIM To evaluate the association between CoPEC prevalence and anxiety-and depressive-like behaviors with both preclinical and clinical approaches.METHODS Patients followed after a CRC surgery and for whom the prevalence of CoPEC has been investigated underwent a psychiatric interview.Results were compared according to the CoPEC colonization.In parallel C57BL6/J wild type mice and mice with a CRC susceptibility were chronically infected with a CoPEC strain.Their behavior was assessed using the Elevated Plus Maze test,the Forced Swimming Test and the Behavior recognition system PhenoTyper®.RESULTS In a limited cohort,all patients with CoPEC colonization presented with psychiatric disorders several years before cancer diagnosis,whereas only one patient(17%)without CoPEC did.This result was confirmed in C57BL6/J wildtype mice and in a CRC susceptibility mouse model(adenomatous polyposis colimultiple intestinal neoplasia/+).Mice exhibited a significant increase in anxiety-and depressive-like behaviors after chronic infection with a CoPEC strain.CONCLUSION This finding provides the first evidence that CoPEC infection can induce microbiota-gut-brain axis disturbances in addition to its procarcinogenic properties.

Evaluating genetic insights into ulcerative colitis and anxiety:Limitations and future directions

We reviewed the study by He et al,which investigates the genetic correlation between ulcerative colitis(UC)and anxiety using bidirectional Mendelian rando-mization.This study reveals a genetic link between UC and anxiety,diverging from prior research associating higher anxiety with Crohn’s disease.While the study's use of large-scale genome-wide association studies data is commendable,it faces limitations such as single nucleotide polymorphism selection biases,lack of multiple testing corrections,and a reliance on European populations.Future research should address these limitations,incorporate diverse populations,and explore psychotherapeutic interventions to improve UC management and patient outcomes.

Acupuncture for cervical dystonia associated with anxiety and depression: A case report

BACKGROUND Cervical dystonia(CD)is a type of muscle tone disorder that usually occurs in the neck muscles.Due to the intermittent or continuous involuntary contraction of the neck muscles,the head and neck are twisted and skewed and some postural abnormalities occur.Long-term abnormal posture or pain can cause negative emotions in patients,which can affect their quality of life.CASE SUMMARY This case report included a 37-year-old woman who was diagnosed with CD associated with anxiety and depression;the accompanying symptoms were head and neck tilt of approximately 90°to the right and mental abnormality.After two courses of acupuncture treatment,the patient’s head and neck can be maintained in a normal position,and the negative emotions can be relieved.CONCLUSION This case indicates that acupuncture can effectively improve CD and the emotional state and quality of life of patients,making it an effective alternative treatment for the condition.

Influence of static cartoons combined with dynamic virtual environments on preoperative anxiety of preschool-aged children undergoing surgery

BACKGROUND Preschoolers become anxious when they are about to undergo anesthesia and surgery,warranting the development of more appropriate and effective interventions.AIM To explore the effect of static cartoons combined with dynamic virtual environments on preoperative anxiety and anesthesia induction compliance in preschool-aged children undergoing surgery.METHODS One hundred and sixteen preschool-aged children were selected and assigned to the drug(n=37),intervention(n=40),and control(n=39)groups.All the children received routine preoperative checkups and nursing before being transferred to the preoperative preparation room on the day of the operation.The drug group received 0.5 mg/kg midazolam and the intervention group treatment consisting of static cartoons combined with dynamic virtual environments.The control group received no intervention.The modified Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale was used to evaluate the children’s anxiety level on the day before surgery(T0),before leaving the preoperative preparation room(T1),when entering the operating room(T2),and at anesthesia induction(T3).Compliance during anesthesia induction(T3)was evaluated using the Induction Compliance Checklist(ICC).Changes in mean arterial pressure(MAP),heart rate(HR),and respiratory rate(RR)were also recorded at each time point.RESULTS The anxiety scores of the three groups increased variously at T1 and T2.At T3,both the drug and intervention groups had similar anxiety scores,both of which were lower than those in the control group.At T1 and T2,MAP,HR,and RR of the three groups increased.The drug and control groups had significantly higher MAP and RR than the intervention group at T2.At T3,the MAP,HR,and RR of the drug group decreased and were significantly lower than those in the control group but were comparable to those in the intervention group.Both the drug and intervention groups had similar ICC scores and duration of anesthesia induction(T3),both of which were higher than those of the control group.CONCLUSION Combining static cartoons with dynamic virtual environments as effective as medication,specifically midazolam,in reducing preoperative anxiety and fear in preschool-aged children.This approach also improve their compliance during anesthesia induction and helped maintain their stable vital signs.

What is the role of cognitive-behavioral career coaching in mitigating work anxiety and depression among public employees?

This editorial explores the study by Mkpoikanke Sunday Otu and Maximus Monaheng Sefotho on the use of cognitive-behavioral career coaching(CBCC)to reduce work anxiety and depression among public employees.Public sector workers often face significant psychological stressors,leading to mental health issues that impair well-being and job performance.The study employed a grouprandomized trial design,involving 120 public employees diagnosed with severe anxiety and depression.Participants were divided into a treatment group,receiving CBCC,and a control group with no intervention.Results showed a significant reduction in anxiety and depression levels in the treatment group,sustained through follow-up assessments.The findings underscore the clinical relevance of CBCC as an effective intervention for improving mental health among public employees.Future research should explore the scalability of CBCC across different sectors and cultural contexts,as well as its integration with other mental health interventions.This editorial advocates for the broader implementation of CBCC practices in public service to enhance employee productivity and psychological well-being.By addressing cognitive distortions and fostering adaptive coping mechanisms,CBCC can help public employees navigate complex professional environments,ultimately contributing to a healthier and more efficient workforce.

Examination of emotional distress,depression,and anxiety in neurodiverse students:A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND Neurodiverse students frequently encounter distinct challenges that can adversely affect their mental well-being.This research aimed to investigate emotional distress,depression,and anxiety among neurodiverse students,examine the interrelationships among these factors,and assess the impact of participant characteristics.AIM To address the problem of lack of data pointed out in the neurodiversity research in Nigeria,this study aims to examine the emotional distress,depression,and anxiety in neurodiverse students.METHODS A cross-sectional study was carried out involving 200 neurodiverse students in Nigeria.Participants filled out self-report questionnaires that measured emotional distress(Brief Emotional Distress Scale for Youth),depression(Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale Revised),and anxiety(State-Trait Anxiety Inventory).The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics,correlation analyses,Bayesian Mann-Whitney U tests,two-way ANOVAs,and Kruskal-Wallis tests.RESULTS Anxiety was found to have the highest prevalence(mean=68.8),followed by depression(mean=34.2)and emotional distress(mean=26.3).Significant positive correlations were identified among all three mental health factors,with the strongest correlation observed between depression and anxiety(rho=0.492,P<0.001).Moderate evidence indicated gender differences in emotional distress(BF10=2.448).The interaction between educational environment and diagnosis had a significant effect on emotional distress(F=3.106,P=0.017).Kruskal-Wallis tests indicated significant variations in anxiety levels across different educational settings(P=0.002),although post-hoc comparisons did not reveal significant differences among specific settings.CONCLUSION This research emphasizes the prevalence of mental health challenges among neurodiverse students,particularly concerning anxiety.The intricate relationships among emotional distress,depression,and anxiety highlight the necessity for thorough mental health support.The impact of educational settings and diagnoses on mental health outcomes stresses the importance of customized interventions.These findings are significant for educators,mental health professionals,and policymakers in formulating targeted support strategies for neurodiverse students.

Sleep Quality and Emotional Adaptation among Freshmen in Elite Chinese Universities during Prolonged COVID-19 Lockdown:The Mediating Role of Anxiety Symptoms

Under the effects of COVID-19 and a number of ongoing lockdown tactics,anxiety symptoms and poor sleep quality have become common mental health issues among college freshmen and are intimately related to their emotional adaptation.To explore this connection,this study gathered data from a sample of 256 freshmen enrolled in an elite university in China in September 2022.The association between sleep quality,anxiety symptoms,and emotional adaptation was clarified using correlation analysis.Additionally,the mediating function of anxiety symptoms between sleep quality and emotional adaptation was investigated using a structural equation model.The results reveal that:(1)Chinese elite university freshmen who were subjected to prolonged lockdown had poor sleep quality and mild anxiety symptoms;(2)a significant positive correlation between poor sleep quality and anxiety symptoms was identified;(3)anxiety symptoms were found to have a significant negative impact on emotional adaptation;(4)poor sleep quality had a negative impact on emotional adaptation through anxiety symptoms.This research makes a valuable contribution by offering insights into the intricate relationship between sleep quality and emotional adaptation among freshmen in elite Chinese universities during prolonged lockdown conditions,and it is beneficial for schools and educators to further improve school schedules and psychological health initiatives.

Assessing myocardial indices and inflammatory factors to determine anxiety and depression severity in patients with chronic heart failure

BACKGROUND Patients with chronic heart failure(CHF)have a progressive disease that is associated with poor quality of life and high mortality.Many patients experience anxiety and depression(A&D)symptoms,which can further accelerate disease progression.We hypothesized that indicators of myocardial function and inflammatory stress may reflect the severity of A&D symptoms in patients with CHF.Changes in these biomarkers could potentially predict whether A&D symptoms will deteriorate further in these individuals.AIM To measure changes in cardiac and inflammatory markers in patients with CHF to determine A&D severity and predict outcomes.METHODS We retrospectively analyzed 233 patients with CHF treated at the Jingzhou Hospital,Yangtze University between 2018-2022 and grouped them according to Self-Rating Anxiety Scale(SAS)and Self-Rating Depression Scale(SDS)scores.We compared clinical data in the no-A&D,mild-A&D,moderate-A&D,and severe-A&D groups,the SAS and SDS scores with the New York Heart Association(NYHA)functional classification,and cardiac markers and inflammatory factors between the no/mild-A&D and moderate/severe-A&D groups.Regression analysis was performed on the markers with P<0.05 to determine their ability to predict A&D severity in patients and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve(AUROC)was used to evaluate their accuracy.RESULTS In the inter-group comparison,the following variables had an effect on A&D severity in patients with CHF:NYHA class,left ventricular ejection fraction(LVEF),left ventricular end-diastolic diameter,N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide(NT-proBNP),interleukin-6(IL-6),and tumor necrosis factor-alpha(P<0.05).Other variables did not differ significantly between the A&D groups(P>0.05).In addition,we found that higher NYHA classes were associated with higher the SAS and SDS scores(P<0.05).Regression analysis showed that LVEF,NTproBNP,and IL-6 were independent risk factors for A&D severity(P<0.05).Among them,NT-proBNP had the best predictive ability as a single indicator(AUROC=0.781).Furthermore,the combination of these three indicators exhibited a good predictive effect toward discriminating the extent of A&D severity among patients(AUROC=0.875).CONCLUSION Cardiac and inflammatory biomarkers,such as LVEF,NT-proBNP,and IL-6,are correlated with A&D severity in patients with CHF and have predictive value.

The Impact of Sleep Determination on Procrastination before Bedtime:The Role of Anxiety

Objective:The importance of good sleep for energy recovery and overall physical and mental health cannot be overstated.However,the increasing competitiveness of society,diversifying lifestyles,and the rapid spread of the internet and electronic devices have significantly impacted people’s sleep patterns,particularly through bedtime procrastination.Therefore,this study aims to investigate the relationship and underlying mechanisms between sleep determination,anxiety,and bedtime procrastination among the Chinese population.Method:The study utilized data from a national survey—the China Residents’Sleep Condition Survey(November 2021,with 6,037 participants).By constructing mediation and moderation models,it analyzed the relationship and mechanisms between sleep determination and bedtime procrastination,highlighting the dual role of anxiety:as a mediator between sleep determination and bedtime procrastination,and as a moderator of their relationship.Results:There was a negative correlation between sleep determination and bedtime procrastination;anxiety was related to an increase in bedtime procrastination behaviors;In the interplay between sleep determination and pre-bedtime procrastination,the regulatory effect of anxiety is found to be more pronounced than its intermediary role,with anxiety significantly diminishing the inverse relationship between sleep determination and procrastination before bedtime.Conclusion:Bedtime procrastination can lead to sleep issues,thus reducing sleep quality.Enhancing sleep determination or alleviating pre-sleep anxiety can help inhibit bedtime procrastination behaviors.Intervening and reducing bedtime procrastination is one of the effective measures to improve sleep quality.

Analysis of influencing factors of anxiety and depression in patients with periodontitis

BACKGROUND Periodontitis is a chronic oral disease caused by pathogenic microorganisms that corrode tooth tissue,form periodontal pockets,absorb alveolar bone,and finally lead to tooth loss.During treatment,patients are prone to anxiety,tension,and other negative emotions,which affect their ability to face the disease and may also lead to aggravation of the original condition and affect oral health.Therefore,it is important to improve the negative psychology of patients with periodontitis to clarify the factors that may lead to negative psychological emotions.AIM To investigate the risk factors that may lead to anxiety and depression in patients with periodontitis.METHODS One hundred patients with periodontitis were selected between March 2022 and March 2023 at our hospital.All patients were assessed with the Zung Self-rating Depression Scale(SDS)(≥53 points indicate a depressive state)and Zung Selfrating Anxiety Scale(SAS)(≥50 points indicates an anxious state).In this study,patients who experienced anxiety or depression were included in the occurrence group and those without anxiety or depression were included in the nonoccurrence group.The baseline data of the two groups were compared to explore the risk factors for anxiety and depression in patients with periodontitis.RESULTS A total of 100 patients with periodontitis were included in this study.According to the SDS,38 patients(38.00%)developed depression,with an average SDS score of(68.52±5.85)points.According to the SAS,40 patients(40.00%)developed anxiety,and the average SAS score was(72.15±4.15)points.In this study,56 patients with anxiety or depression were included.Compared with the nonoccurrence group,the occurrence group had higher ages(≥60 years),lower level of hope(low level),educational level(high school or below),disease perception(poor),and sleep disorder(yes).The negative coping dimension scores of the simplified coping style questionnaire(SCSQ)and Dental Fear Scale(DFS)in the occurrence group were higher,whereas the score of the positive coping dimension of the SCSQ was significantly lower(P<0.05).There were no significant differences in the other data between the groups(P>0.05).The results of multiple logistics regression analysis showed that age(≥60 years),level of hope(low level),educational level(high school or below),disease perception(poor),sleep disorder(yes),high negative coping dimension scores of SCSQ,high score of DFS,and low positive coping dimension scores of SCSQ were all factors contributing to the anxiety and depression in patients with periodontitis(odds ratio>1,P<0.05).CONCLUSION Age,hope level,educational level,disease perception,sleep disorders,coping style,and dental fear were all associated with anxiety and depression in patients with periodontitis.