Salivary Cortisol Analysis Research Articles

Exploring the Effects of Sensorimotor Training and Relaxation Therapy on Postural Control, Balance, Sleep, and Stress in Sedentary Young Adults: Rationale, Design, and Methodology.

Postural control (PC) and sleep are critical in several aspects of health. Poor sleep negatively influences PC and balance, which is necessary for performing various tasks, from reaching to mobility. Moreover, sleep disturbances and consequent PC and balance deterioration are associated with job accidents, traffic accidents, falls, and injuries. Healthy adults who have inadequate sleep show a decline in optimal functioning, even in the absence of medical illnesses. This suggests that getting enough sleep, both in duration and quality, is essential to maintain optimal health. Moreover, inadequate sleep has also been observed to have a bidirectional relationship with stress levels. However, there is insufficient evidence regarding the impact of non-pharmacological treatments to improve PC, sleep, and stress in the sedentary young adult (YA) population. This article describes the protocol for a study to investigate the effects of sensorimotor training and relaxation therapy on various static and dynamic PC tests, balance measures, and subjective and objective indices of sleep and stress among sedentary YAs with impaired sleep quality. The protocol is also designed to evaluate the effect of these therapies on fatigue, salivary cortisol levels, anxiety, and depression. Methods for assessing the sleep architecture, static and dynamic PC, balance, and stress are described along with the methods of scoring with the primary goal of providing a standardized set of assessment and scoring procedures according to the latest guidelines and gold-standard techniques and measures that can be used reliably at different laboratories. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Postural control assessment Basic Protocol 2: Balance assessment Basic Protocol 3: Sleep architecture assessment Basic Protocol 4: Salivary cortisol analysis.

Colorimetric Determination of Salivary Cortisol Levels in Artificial Saliva for the Development of a Portable Colorimetric Sensor (Salitrack)

Mental illnesses, such as clinical depression, have taken an unprecedented toll on society and the economy on a global scale. The relationship between stress management and mental health decline is of utmost significance, especially as most avenues of mental health management remain inaccessible for the majority of the general public, i.e., interview-based, and face-to-face interventions or costly drug-based therapies. Cortisol, the primary stress hormone, regulates the stress response in the human body and, through persistent activation, can lead to chronic stress and mental health deterioration. Thereby, the measurement and evaluation of cortisol within saliva could harness potential developments in management and diagnostic tools to monitor physiological and psychological stress in simple point-of-care applications. The current study aims to determine the concentration of salivary cortisol in spiked artificial saliva samples using blue tetrazolium (BT) dye as a colorimetric indicator. The proposed method showcases the use of the BT dye as an effective method for the rapid measurement of salivary cortisol, with accuracy comparable to the gold-standard method for salivary cortisol analysis, enzyme-linked immunoassays (ELISAs). Finally, a prototype colorimetric sensor has been developed for point-of-care applications of stress monitoring via salivary cortisol measurement.

In and out Beauty and Sensitive Skin, a Psychophysiological Exploration: Myth or Reality?

Knowing that biomolecules, such as β-amyrin and α-amyrin, have some pharmacological effects, the aim of this study was directed towards exploring the protective effect of Tomato Peel and Seed Extract (TPSE) for its soothing function but also for its capacity to modulate the adrenal axis, which is involved in stress response. Ex vivo tests were carried out on skin explants to evaluate the effectiveness of TPSE formulated at 0.5% on Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) and IL-10 release, Kappa Opioid Receptor (KOR), and Caspase 14 expression. An in vivo study combined a clinical evaluation of skin homogeneity and psychological parameters as well as an analysis of salivary cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone concentrations. All measurements were carried out at the beginning and after 28 days of applying a TPSE face cream. TPSE regulated not only the release of CGRP, IL-10, and the expression of Caspase 14, reflecting anti-neurogenic and anti-inflammatory properties, but also modulated KORs. Twenty-eight days of TPSE application induced a significant decrease in intensity and extent erythrosis, a lower output of salivary cortisol, and a significant increase in pleasant emotions when compared to placebo. These results provide encouragement to continue exploring the impact of cosmetic ingredients on psychophysiological parameters to improve skin health and well-being.

Fear of public speaking: the effects of a communicational improvement training on physiological parameters and the perception of communication

Presentations to audiences are often seen as challenging by university students, causing physiological reactivity on cortisol levels and heart rate, for example. Many students perceive that they have difficulties expressing themselves or do not consider themselves to be good communicators. With the thought that efficient communication is able to bring well-being and more confidence, it is understood that a communication skills training could mitigate adverse effects on the body during public speaking. This study aimed to verify whether a communicational improvement training can improve physiological parameters and perception when speaking in public among university students. This was a prospective, blinded, controlled, and randomized trial. Students from colleges and universities were recruited for this study. Invitations were either in person or via social networks and/or e-mail. There were 39 university students who completed the tasks, ages between 18 and 30. There were two groups: the intervention group (IG) and control group (CG). The intervention group participated in a communicational improvement program for six weeks to work on breathing, articulation, speech rhythm, pneumophonoarticulatory coordination, expressiveness and non-verbal communication. Data of heart rate measures, salivary cortisol analysis, self-perception of public speaking, and presentation ratings were collected. The intervention group presented with lower heart rates and cortisol levels, better presentation ratings, and higher self-perception of public speaking than the control group after participating in the communication improvement training. In this study it was possible to verify the efficiency of a communicational improvement training, being able to improve cortisol levels, heart rate, and perception when speaking in public in university students. Based on the results presented, new studies are suggested: (a) measuring the individual effect of the workshops demonstrated here and (b) comparing this type of intervention with other types of treatment used in the health area (medication, psychotherapeutic, holistic, etc.).

Anxiety and Biofeedback in Higher Education: A Systematic Review

Abstract College students tend to develop stress and anxiety disorders. Intervention through Biofeedback (BFB) has been shown to be effective in reducing these symptoms. This systematic review aims to analyze how anxiety and stress have been evaluated in BFB interventions in university students. PRISMA guidelines were used, where articles from 2018 to 2023 were selected from three different databases. Among the 281 articles found, 10 were selected and analyzed critically. The studies comprised samples ranging from 4 to 146 individuals, and where women tended to be in greater numbers. Subjective measurement instruments (self-report questionnaires) and psychophysiological measurements (BFB and analysis of salivary cortisol) were used in the studies. The results of this research indicate that the instruments most used by means of screening were the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and the State Anxiety Inventory (STAI), used in the evaluation before and after the interventions. In the psychophysiological assessment, in addition to the BFB devices, one study used the analysis of salivary cortisol. Interventions with BFB in university students proved to be, in most cases, effective in reducing symptoms of stress and anxiety. Based on the above, greater emphasis should be placed on the development and evaluation of BFB programs at universities

Role of Cortisol in Horse’s Welfare and Health

This review describes the physiological role of cortisol in the horses’ body and the usefulness of cortisol concentration measurements in assessing welfare and diagnosing diseases. Cortisol is examined in terms of its production and functions, along with the concept of circadian cortisol rhythms and potential disruptions in these patterns. The significance of cortisol concentration is emphasized, as it provides insights into stress levels, and the connection between cortisol and stereotypical horse behaviors, raising the question of whether these behaviors signify stress or serve as coping mechanisms. Moreover, cortisol concentration helps in diagnosing various health conditions such as Cushing’s Disease, inflammation, and metabolic imbalances. As cortisol concentration is considered a stress indicator that may be affected by the sampling protocol, the matrices for cortisol sampling and their practical applications are summarized. In this review, three major cortisol sampling methods: plasma, salivary, and hair cortisol, are described in detail. Plasma cortisol measurements offer acute stress insights, while salivary cortisol analysis provides a non-invasive method for continuous stress monitoring. Hair cortisol, on the other hand, offers an assessment of long-term stress levels. This text underscores the importance of cortisol control in safeguarding the welfare and health of horses.

Diagnostic performance of an automated immunoassay for salivary cortisol

Automated immunoanalysis (AI) is an interesting alternative for measuring salivary cortisol, as the gold standard HPLC-MS/MS method is not yet readily available. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of salivary cortisol immunoassay on the iSYS immunoanalyzer in adrenal dynamic tests. Cortisol was measured on iSYS and on HPLC-MS/MS in saliva samples collected after 1mg-dexamethasone suppression test (DST) in 115 patients suspected of Cushing syndrome, and during Synacthen® stimulation test (SST) in 108 patients suspected of adrenal insufficiency. Concentrations on AI correlated well with HPLC-MS/MS (Spearman r=0.9496; P<0.0001), but with a significant positive bias. ROC analysis of salivary cortisol identified optimal cut-off values on AI and HPLC-MS/MS of respectively 3.5 and 0.77nmol/L for DST and 32.6 and 13.8nmol/L at T60 after SST. Automated immunoassays for salivary cortisol are suitable in daily practice but require determination of specific cut-off and reference values.

Are all parental experiences equal?: Cluster analysis of salivary cortisol and perception of parental stress in mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder

Many parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) report high stress levels related to their parenting role. The experience of stress is reflected in physical symptoms and well-being, as observed by abnormal patterns of cortisol regulation. However, it may be a mistake to conceive parenthood as unilaterally stressful as diverse experiences are possible. Mothers of children with ASD provided salivary cortisol samples and self-rated parental stress. The area under the curve with respect to ground was calculated in regard to three daily collection time points. As a group, mothers reported average levels of parenting stress and flat daily cortisol output. The current age of the child and age at the time of diagnosis moderately predicted overall daily cortisol. Hierarchical clusters analysis identified four distinct profiles of stress regulation based on daily cortisol regulation and perception of parental stress. Groups did not differ based on the severity of symptoms related to autism or demographic information. We suggest that other variables, such as stress mediators and secondary stressors, may explain variability in stress regulation. Future research and intervention should perceive the parental experience as heterogeneous and focus on individualizing the support offered in light of diverse experiences.

Empathy at school project: Effects of didactics of emotions® on emotional competence, cortisol secretion and inflammatory profile in primary school children. A controlled longitudinal psychobiological study

BackgroundThere is mounting evidence of the presence of chronic stress among children during primary school: girls and boys under the age of 15 years often experience anxiety, irritability and sleeping problems with negative consequences on scholastic climate and the spread of bullying and dropping out of school. The promotion of emotion regulation within school environment through innovative didactic methodologies represents a valuable tool for teachers and parents to reduce emotional distress and associated risk behaviours and to promote wellbeing. AimOur research aims to explore the psychological and biological consequences of teaching emotional training in an experimental group of Italian Primary School children. MethodsA sample of pupils (81 children aged between 6 and 8) was divided into an experimental group (33 subjects) and a control group (30 subjects). A further advanced group of 18 subjects, who have experienced the method in the previous school year, was also included. The experimental study lasted one school year (from October 2021 to May 2022). The following psychological tests were administered to all groups: TEC (Test of Emotion Comprehension) to measure the children's different emotional abilities and the Projective test (PT) 'A person in the rain', to identify the coping skills of children in a stressful condition. Morning salivary cortisol, IL-6 and TNF-alpha assays were conducted in all three groups. Psychological and biological tests were administered at the beginning of the study and at the end of the study. ResultsThe MR-Anova model for TEC score showed that there was not a significant group effect [Fgroup = 2.24, p = 0.114]. Pairwise comparisons showed that mean score significantly increased only in the Experimental group (pB < 0.001) and at the end of the project there was a significant difference between Experimental group and Control group (pB = 0.012). The mean score of PT test increased significantly from baseline to the end of the project for the Experimental group (pB < 0.001) and for the Advanced group (pB = 0.004). At the end of the project, there were significant differences between the Experimental group and the Control group (pB = 0.004) and between the Advanced group and the Control group (pB < 0.001). Salivary cortisol analysis revealed a significant effect between subjects [Fgroup = 9.66; p < 0.001] and significant effects within subjects with the main effect of the time [Ftime = 35.41; p < 0.001] and the significant interaction “time x group” [Ftimexgroup = 3.38; p = 0.040]. Pairwise comparisons showed that cortisol levels decreased significantly over time only in the Experimental group (pB < 0.001). Regarding to IL-6 levels, there was not a significant effect between subjects [Fgroups = 0.0481; p = 0.953]. The mean level decreased significantly for each group from baseline to post project (pB < 0.001). With respect to TNF-alpha levels, the mean levels decreased over time for all groups (pB = 0.006 for Experimental group; pB < 0.001 either for the Advanced or Control group). Conclusionthe results documented in the experimental groups who experienced didactics of emotion for at least one school year show a significant increase in children's ability to cope with reality, stress and anxiety, and an improvement of their emotional competence. Meanwhile, a significant reduction in the amount of salivary cortisol was observed in the experimental group at the end of the scholastic year; meantime a stable reduced amount of salivary cortisol in advanced group throughout the project was also observed. These findings show that an intervention through an emotional education program is able to regulate interpersonal skills and the stress axis response.

Salivary Cortisol Analysis in Collegiate Female Lacrosse Athletes

Salivary Cortisol Analysis in Collegiate Female Lacrosse Athletes

Comparative Analysis of Salivary Cortisol in Young Adult Patients with Temporomandibular Disorders

Comparative Analysis of Salivary Cortisol in Young Adult Patients with Temporomandibular Disorders

Determination of salivary cortisol and salivary pH level in gaming teenagers - A cross-sectional study.

Internet gaming disorder and cybervictimization has a disproportionate increase during the COVID 19 pandemic. Teenagers and adolescents have high risk for addiction to online gaming. Online gaming increases the stress level of the users affecting the general and the oral health. The study aims to determine the salivary cortisol and salivary pH among the gaming teenagers. The cross-sectional study recruited 45 gaming teenagers with the mean age of 15.5 years. The participants were stratified according to the type of online gaming played as mind, aggressive and betting gaming. Their salivary pH and salivary cortisol were assessed. The collected data was analyzed using SPSS version 23. The mean salivary pH was found to be less among females playing aggressive games (7.11±0.30) and males playing mind games (7.24±0.16). Salivary cortisol level was found to be statistically high in males (6.66±1.33) and females (7.82±0.66) playing aggressive games. The sub-group analysis of salivary pH and cortisol for gender showed a significant difference in the mean salivary cortisol level (p<0.05) with no difference in the salivary pH (p>0.05). Based on the number of hours spent in online gaming, there was a significant increase in the mean salivary cortisol level among the participants playing >3h (p<0.05). Salivary cortisol is high among individuals playing aggressive games compared to mind and betting games. Also, salivary cortisol is high in females compared to males with no change in salivary pH.

First study on stress evaluation and reduction in hospitalized cats after neutering surgery.

In Thailand, domestic cats are the most common companion animal, and many are admitted to veterinary clinics for neutering surgery; however, such environment can induce stress. This is the first study to evaluate stress in hospitalized cats after neutering surgery using cat stress score (CSS) and salivary cortisol levels, including the impact of providing a hiding box (B) and/or administering a pheromone product to reduce stress. The study design was based on a randomized controlled clinical trial. A total of 80 domestic cats undergoing routine neutering surgery were assessed for their behavioral demeanor scoring system (DSS) as friendly (DSS1) and aggressive (DSS2) based on a DSS. During admission, the cats were randomly allocated to single standard cages with one of the following treatments: (B), feline facial pheromone (P), a combination of hiding box and the pheromone (BP), or no additional enrichment (C). Cat stress score, food intake, and hide-seeking behavior were recorded. The cortisol enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit was used to assess the salivary cortisol level. On the 1st day of admission, aggressive cats had a significantly higher CSS (4.16 ± 0.29) than friendly cats (3.27 ± 0.16). Both demeanor cat groups showed statistically significant reductions in stress levels earlier than the control group after providing the enrichments. Saliva cortisol measurements ranged from 0.24 to 0.66 ng/mL. No statistical differences in cortisol levels were observed between the 1st day and other days of admission. In contrast, no differences in food intake and hide-seeking behavior were seen within each group during the same period. Results suggested that stress and stress responses in cats depended on behavioral demeanor. The provision of enrichment, including hiding box and feline facial pheromone in singly housed caging reduced stress, especially in aggressive cats. However, salivary cortisol analysis, food intake, and hide-seeking behavior were ineffective for assessing stress in cats after neutering surgery.

Psychobiological Evaluation of Day Clinic Treatment for People Living With Dementia - Feasibility and Pilot Analyses.

BackgroundHospitalization is often stressful and burdensome for people living with dementia (PwD) and their informal caregivers (ICs). Day clinic treatment may provide a suitable alternative, but is often precluded by a diagnosis of dementia. Furthermore, it is often caregiver-based ratings that measure treatment success as the validity of self-reports in PwD is critically discussed. We therefore set out to examine the feasibility of psychobiological stress measures in PwD and ICs and to evaluate treatment trajectories considering both the day clinic context and the daily life of the dyads.MethodA total of 40 dyads of PwD (mean age: 78.15 ± 6.80) and their ICs (mean age: 63.85 ± 13.09) completed paper-and-pencil questionnaires (covering stress, depressive symptoms, and caregiver burden among others) in addition to the measurement of hair cortisol concentrations (HCC) at admission, discharge, and follow-up 6 months after day clinic treatment. As part of an ambulatory assessment, for 2 days at the beginning and 2 days at the end of the day clinic treatment, PwD and ICs collected six saliva samples per day for the analysis of salivary cortisol (sCort) and alpha-amylase (sAA).ResultsPaper-and-pencil questionnaires and HCC assessments were more feasible than the ambulatory assessment. We found discrepancies between subjective and physiological markers of stress in PwD. Whereas HCC decreased over time, self-reported stress increased. Child–parent dyads reported decreases in neuropsychiatric symptoms, associated burden, and self-reported stress from admission to follow-up. In daily life, both PwD and ICs showed characteristic diurnal profiles of sAA and sCort, however, we found no differences in summary indicators of salivary stress markers over time.DiscussionThe psychobiological evaluation was feasible and added informative value, underlining the potential of physiological stress markers to complement self-reports on stress in PwD and to objectively evaluate treatment trajectories. In this sample, HCC was more feasible and acceptable as biological marker of stress compared to saliva samples. Concerning treatment trajectories, differential effects on the dyads were found, with child–parent dyads benefiting more from day clinic treatment compared to spousal dyads.

T162 Evaluation of salivary cortisol and cortisone analysis for the diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency in decompensated liver cirrhosis patients using liquid-chromatography tandem mass spectrometry

T162 Evaluation of salivary cortisol and cortisone analysis for the diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency in decompensated liver cirrhosis patients using liquid-chromatography tandem mass spectrometry

The Validity of the Salivary Cortisol Analysis Method Using the Cube Reader in Japanese University Students

AbstractThe assessment of salivary cortisol is considered a noninvasive method for measuring stress. The validity of the SOMA Cube Reader method to measure salivary cortisol was evaluated by comparing the results with those of the long‐used enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay method (ELISA) in 18 healthy Japanese university students (including non‐athletes). We measured diurnal salivary cortisol levels (immediately post‐awakening, 30 min post‐awakening, and at 11:00, 14:00, and 17:00). Measurements obtained by both methods were compared using analyses of variance. No significant main effects or interactions were demonstrated. Significant positive correlations were noted between the ELISA and Cube Reader measurements across all five testing points, the cortisol awakening response, the daily output, and the diurnal cortisol slope (rs = .50–.75). Moreover, the limits of agreement between the Cube Reader and the ELISA results were assessed via a Bland–Altman graph, showing good agreement with no bias. The results obtained with the Cube Reader method correlated with values obtained using the ELISA method, confirming the potential to use the Cube Reader for measuring diurnal salivary cortisol levels in healthy Japanese university students, including non‐athletes.

Sensitive and Robust LC-MS/MS Analysis of Salivary Cortisol in Negative Mode.

Cortisol is one of the most important glucocorticoids involved in the regulation of human metabolism and physiological stress. Monitoring of levels of cortisol is of immense clinical benefit. In particular, salivary cortisol levels have been shown to correlate well with diurnal changes in cortisol levels in serum and have been used widely for monitoring of cortisol levels for diagnosis and prognosis purposes. We present a sensitive, fast, and robust quantitative liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) assay for salivary cortisol in negative mode. This assay employs protein precipitation followed by reversed-phase liquid chromatographic separation, negative-mode electrospray ionization (ESI), and MS/MS detection. This assay has a total run time of 5.8minutes and a limit of quantification of 0.5ng/mL with a linear range up to 100ng/mL. No carryover was observed at 10μg/mL. This assay also incorporates the routine monitoring of prednisolone, a potential interferent to salivary cortisol.

Psychological stress factors and salivary cortisol in nursing students throughout their training.

to analyze psychological stress factors and salivary cortisol concentration in nursing undergraduates throughout their training. a cross-sectional, analytical, and comparative study carried out in an evening course using a sociodemographic questionnaire, an Instrument to Assess Stress in Nursing Students, and salivary cortisol analysis. The study included descriptive and comparative analyses and a multiple linear regression model. 187 participants answered the questionnaires, and 129 had their cortisol quantified. The domains Practical Activities Execution, Professional Communication, and Professional Training represented the stress factors with the highest mean values for 3rd, 4th, and 5th-year students compared to 1st and 2nd year. For the 5th year, it was the domains Professional Communication and Professional Training compared to the 3rd year and Environment compared to the 1st and 3rd year. A significant result was obtained between the times of cortisol collections for males (p < 0.0001), females (p < 0.0001), and for 1st (p = 0.0319) 2nd (p = 0.0245), and 5th (p < 0.0001) years. Students in years 3 through 5 had higher exposure to stressors, and there were adjustments in cortisol production rhythmicity for students in years 1, 2, and 5.

Evaluation of music therapy to reduce stress in hospitalized cats.

This study aimed to evaluate the use of two different types of music - cat-specific music and classical music - compared with no music, to reduce stress in cats during hospitalization. Thirty-five hospitalized cats were randomly divided into three groups and each group received a different stimulus - cat-specific music, classical music or no music (control) - throughout their hospitalization. Respiratory rate, salivary cortisol and social interaction were documented. A blinded researcher performed the Cat Stress Score (CSS) during the video analysis of recordings at five specific times over 31 h of hospitalization. There was no difference in the mean CSS between cats listening to cat-specific music, classical music and control throughout the five evaluations. Cat-specific music had a higher percentage of positive social interactions than the other groups on the first evaluation (P <0.05). The average respiratory rate was significantly lower in the classical music group vs control on the fourth evaluation (P <0.05). Although statistically insignificant, the average respiratory rate decreased only in the classical music group during the five evaluations. Cortisol quantification did not seem to follow the CSS results. However, owing to the low and unrepresentative number of samples, it was not possible to perform statistical analysis on these results or a group sample comparison. Both cat-specific music and classical music seem to have some benefit to hospitalized cats. The salivary cortisol analysis was not adequate nor useful to measure stress in hospitalized cats in our study.

MsFLASH analysis of diurnal salivary cortisol and palpitations in peri- and postmenopausal women.

To evaluate the relationship between diurnal salivary cortisol patterns and distress from heart palpitations in midlife women. We analyzed baseline data from 293 women who were eligible for a 3 × 2 factorial trial of exercise or yoga versus routine activity, and omega-3 fish oil versus placebo for vasomotor symptoms. Women self-collected salivary cortisol using swabs at four time points over 2 consecutive days and reported distress from heart racing or pounding during the past 2 weeks using a single item. Sample description and covariate data included demographics, clinical data, vasomotor symptom frequency from daily diaries, medication use, and validated questionnaires on depression, stress, and insomnia (Patient Health Questionnaire-8, Perceived Stress Scale, and Insomnia Severity index). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square and t tests, and repeated measure linear regression models. Participants were on average 54.6 (SD = 3.6) years old, most were White (67%) postmenopausal (84%), and 26% reported distress related to palpitations. In adjusted models, the morning (wake plus 30-min) geometric mean daily salivary cortisol concentrations were significantly more blunted in those with distress from palpitations compared with those without distress (P ≤ 0.03). When all covariates were controlled, distress from palpitations was the sole significant predictor of wake plus 30-minute cortisol (-0.25 [-0.45 to -0.04], P = 0.02). Palpitations among midlife women may be associated with blunted morning cortisol, and this relationship is not explained by demographics, clinical variables, vasomotor symptoms, medications, depression, stress, or insomnia.