Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale Research Articles

Determinants and levels of depression among young adult patients with epilepsy: a cross-sectional study in a Tertiary Care Hospital, Tamilnadu, India

Background: People with epilepsy tend to have more psychological problems, including anxiety and depression. Similarly, a three times higher risk of premature death was prevailed (or expected) in people with epilepsy than that in the general population. The main objective of this study is to analyze the determinants and the levels of depression in young adult patients with epilepsy. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary care medical hospital and research center, in Chennai, Tamilnadu. Forty-one young adults aged 18–25 years with a diagnosis of epilepsy willing to participate were included based on inclusive criteria. A general information questionnaire and Zung self-rating depression scale (SRDS) were used to analyze the study. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews and evaluated using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software to test the P-value significance. Results: 39.0% of patients felt downhearted or blue most of the time. The majority of male (44.4%) and female (85.8%) patients stated that they were in moderate depression (the score range was from 60 to 69). There was an association between variables of age groups, family income, number of comorbidities, and last episode of seizure with the level of depression among young adult patients significant at, P-value < 0.01. Conclusion: This study revealed that to remove the stigma of epilepsy, raising awareness in society and educational campaigns about epilepsy may be helpful. Thus, efforts should be undertaken to control seizures, reduce depression, and improve the overall quality of life of young adult patients.

A novel analysis of interoceptive underpinnings of anxious psychopathology in COVID-19 survivors

IntroductionSARS-CoV-2 affects brain, body, and their interchange. We investigated interoceptive mechanisms in COVID-19 survivors focusing on their potential link with psychopathology and inflammatory biomarkers. MethodsWe assessed interoceptive accuracy (IAc) and time-perceiving (TA) skills of 57 COVID-19 survivors one month after hospital discharge through, respectively, a heartbeats perception task and a time duration task. Each participant was assessed about his interoceptive awareness (IAw) through Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness questionnaire (MAIA) and then, screened for post-traumatic (Impact of Events Scale – IES-R), anxious (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory – STAI-Y1) and depressive (Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale - ZSDS; Beck Depression Inventory - BDI-13) symptoms.Biomarkers of inflammation (platelet count, PC; mean platelet volume, MPV and systemic immune-inflammation index, SII) were obtained in a subsample of 40 survivors by a blood sampling conducted at admission and discharge time from the hospital. Correlational, GLM, GLMZ, and mediation analyses were performed. ResultsIAc did not correlate with TA confirming the reliability of interoceptive measure. IAc positively predicts MAIA’s Trusting subscale and negatively predicts anxious psychopathology which fully mediates the effect of IAc on Trusting.PC at hospital admission predicts anxiety at one month after recovery. Again, a higher decrease of SII during hospitalization predicts higher IAc skill and lower anxiety state at one month. The link between SII change and anxiety is fully mediated by IAc. ConclusionsOur results unveil a potential key role of interoception and brain-body interchange in the exacerbation and maintenance of anxiety psychopathology in COVID-19 survivors.

Linear and non-linear associations of depressive symptoms with oral health knowledge, attitudes, and practices among rural older adults in China: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundDepression affects the oral health of older adults; however, little is known about its impact on oral health among rural older adults in developing countries, which warrants further research. Taking China as an example, there is a large population base of rural older adults suffering from depression, and many rural older people also have long-term oral health problems, which have seriously affected their quality of life in later life. Therefore, this study aimed to explore linear and non-linear associations of depressive symptoms with oral health knowledge, attitudes, and practices among rural older adults in China.MethodsFrom November 2020 to December 2020, 1,902 rural community-dwelling older people aged 60 years and older were investigated, via a cross-sectional survey. The general information, depressive status, oral health knowledge, attitudes, and practices of the participants were obtained through face-to-face structured questionnaires. Among them, the Zung Depression Self-Rating Scale was used to investigate the depressive symptoms of the participants in this survey. The generalized linear model and classification and regression tree model were used, separately.ResultsBased on linear analysis results, we found that minimal to mild depressive symptoms [regression coefficient (β) = -0.345; 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.582 to -0.109, P = 0.004] and depressive symptoms (β = -1.064; 95% CI: -1.982 to -0.146, P = 0.023) were significantly correlated with oral health knowledge. A negative correlation was observed between minimal to mild depressive symptoms (β = -0.385; 95% CI: -0.600 to -0.170, P < 0.001) and oral health attitudes. In addition, while both minimal to mild depressive symptoms (β = 0.018; 95% CI: -0.312 to 0.347, P = 0.916) and depressive symptoms (β = 0.604; 95% CI: -0.675 to 1.883, P = 0.355) were associated with oral health practices. Furthermore, the non-linear analysis showed a combined effect of depressive symptoms on oral health attitudes, indicating that older people of a younger age, not living alone, and not suffering from depressive symptoms are more likely to report better oral health attitudes.ConclusionBoth the linear and non-linear analyses in our study showed that depressive symptoms are significantly correlated with the poor oral health attitudes of older adults in rural communities. Furthermore, depressive symptoms were associated with oral health knowledge in the linear analysis. However, no statistically significant difference was found between depressive symptoms and oral health practices in either analysis. This research deepens our knowledge and understanding of relevant evidence in the mental and oral health of people in later life. In addition, analyzing the factors that affect the oral health of older people from the perspective of their depressive status provides new thinking directions and scientific references for improving the oral health of older adults in practical life.

Relieving effect of jiao-tune of 5-element music on negative emotions in patients with decompensated hepatitis B virus cirrhosis: A randomized and controlled experiment study.

Depression and anxiety are common in patients with decompensated hepatitis B virus (HBV) cirrhosis. This study aimed to evaluate the relieving effects of the jiao-tune of 5-element music on negative emotions in patients with decompensated HBV cirrhosis. The patients were randomly allocated into the control group (standard nursing care) and the jiao-tune group (standard nursing care plus a 2-month course of music therapy with the jiao-tune of 5-element music). The negative emotions of patients were assessed before intervention treatment and at the end of the 2-month follow-up using the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) and Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS). The analysis included 209 patients, with 102 in the control group and 107 in the jiao-tune group, all of whom returned their completed questionnaires. Baseline clinical characteristics and length of hospital stay were comparable between 2 groups. Before intervention treatment, there were no significant differences in SAS score (55.78 ± 5.64 vs 56.47 ± 3.28) and SDS score (65.13 ± 3.12 vs 64.48 ± 4.47) between the jiao-tune group and control group. After 2-month follow-up, the jiao-tune group had a significantly lower SAS score (53.17 ± 5.61) and SDS score (61.28 ± 1.52) compared with the control group (55.49 ± 3.37 and 63.08 ± 2.76), there were significant differences between 2 groups (P < .001). The jiao-tune of 5-element music can relieve the negative emotions in patients with decompensated HBV cirrhosis.

Using inflammatory biomarkers in early pregnancy to predict subsequent antenatal depression

BackgroundAntenatal depression (AD) is one of the most common pregnancy complications. Recent studies indicated that immune responses during pregnancy may contribute to development of AD. ObjectivesThis study aimed to identify possible inflammatory biomarkers in early pregnancy to predict maternal depressive symptoms before delivery. MethodsThis case-control study was conducted within the Maternal and Infant Health (MI-Health) birth cohort (Beijing, China) and depressive symptoms were assessed by Zung Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS) in both second and third trimesters. By using immune multi-factors kits, we tested 26 inflammatory factors in the serum of 38 cases with antenatal depression symptoms in both trimesters (SDS ≥ 53) and 38 controls. Logistic regression was used to identify candidate biomarkers, and the predictive capabilities were evaluated by using Receiver Operator Characteristics (ROC) analysis. ResultsThe concentrations of ln(CCL24) (p = 0.020), IL-7 (p = 0.006) and IL-10 (p = 0.014) were higher in early pregnancy among women with depressive symptoms comparing to healthy controls. The difference remained statistically significant after adjusting for maternal age, education level, gestational diabetes mellitus, pre-pregnancy BMI and gestational weeks of blood sampling (OR(ln(CCL24)) = 4.625, OR(IL-7) = 1.414, OR(IL-10) = 1.151). In ROC analysis, ln(CCL24), IL-7, and IL-10 achieved discrimination for depressive symptoms antepartum, with the values of AUC estimated at 0.75. LimitationsThe sample size is limited, and the infectious disease infection records were not collected for control. ConclusionHigher levels of CCL24, IL-7 and IL-10 may indicate the higher risk of antenatal depression and are potential biomarkers indicating pathogenesis of antenatal depression.

The Association of Depression with Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Patients with Cystic and Non-Cystic Fibrosis Bronchiectasis.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and cystic fibrosis (CF) are chronic conditions that profoundly impact quality of life. OSA, characterized by repeated episodes of upper airway collapse, can exacerbate CF symptoms due to nocturnal airway obstruction. Recent studies highlight the prevalence of OSA in CF patients, especially in adults, and its detrimental effects on health and quality of life. From April 2019 to December 2021, we conducted a study with 104 bronchiectasis patients at Marmara University Pendik Training and Research Hospital. After exclusions, 70 participants (35 CF and 35 non-CF) were included. Sleep parameters were assessed with polysomnography, and depressive mood was evaluated using the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS). Daytime sleepiness was measured using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). The statistical analyses included t-tests, chi-square tests, and logistic regression. Among the CF patients, depressive mood was significantly associated with female sex (OR: 4.28, 95% CI: 1.27-12.04) and anemia (OR: 7.87, 95% CI: 1.50-41.27). Higher ESS scores indicated greater daytime sleepiness in the depressive groups (p = 0.051). Depressive CF patients also had a significantly longer disease duration and more frequent annual exacerbations. No significant differences were found in total sleep time, sleep efficiency, or sleep stages between the depressive and non-depressive groups. A lower forced vital capacity (FVC) was observed in the depressive CF patients, although not significantly. Depression is prevalent among adult CF patients with OSA, with significant associations with female sex and anemia. These findings underscore the need for integrated care addressing both physical and mental health aspects, including interventions for respiratory symptoms, anemia management, and sleep quality enhancement to improve overall quality of life.

Examining The Impact Of Anxiety And Depression On Sleep Quality Among Healthcare Providers

Background: Anxiety and depression can significantly impact sleep quality. This can lead to difficulties falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restful sleep. Racing thoughts, worry, and physical symptoms like increased heart rate can make it hard to relax and drift off to sleep, which will affect the quality performance of healthcare providers. Aims: Our objective was to study the influence of anxiety, and depression on sleep quality and to find the factors of sleeping quality to give a recommendation that would reflect well on the healthcare providers’ job satisfaction. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was used utilizing a self-administered questionnaire. Data was collected from healthcare providers using the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS). and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale-7. In this study, 350 questionnaires were distributed to qualified respondents, and a total of 190 valid questionnaires (excluded incomplete questionnaires) were returned, indicating a valid response rate of 54%. Results: Statistics showed that more than a quarter of respondents had at least a mild level of depression, which is about 26.9%. Noticed that respondents with sleep disorders (mean = 2.35), and mental disorders (mean = 2.42) showed significantly higher levels of depression as compared to those without the disorder. In addition, 26.4% of respondents had at least a mild level of anxiety. Respondents with sleep disorders (mean = 2.32), and mental disorders (mean = 2.50) showed significantly higher levels of anxiety as compared to those without disorders. There were 13.7% of respondents having mild sleep problems, while 7.9% of respondents having severe sleep problems. Conclusion: Both anxiety and depression can disrupt sleep quality, making it essential to address these mental health conditions to improve overall well-being and sleep patterns.

Clinical effect of acupuncture for gastroesophageal reflux disease based on the "heart-stomach connection" theory and its effects on serum gastrointestinal hormones

To observe the effect of acupuncture on gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) based on the "heart-stomach connection" theory, and to explore its possible mechanisms. Seventy patients with GERD were randomly divided into an acupuncture group (35 cases, 2 cases dropped out) and a medication group (35 cases, 1 case dropped out). The patients in the acupuncture group received acupuncture at bilateral Shenmen (HT 7), Neiguan (PC 6), Burong (ST 19), Tianshu (ST 25), Zusanli (ST 36), Gongsun (SP 4), and Zhongwan (CV 12), with needles retained for 30 min, every other day, three times a week. The patients in the medication group were treated with oral omeprazole capsules, once daily, 20 mg each time. Both groups were treated for 8 weeks. Before and after treatment, the GERD questionnaire (GERDQ), GERD-quality of life scale (GERD-QOL), Hamilton depression scale-24 (HAMD-24), Zung self-rating depression scale (SDS), and Zung self-rating anxiety scale (SAS) scores were observed. Serum levels of gastrointestinal hormones (gastrin [GAS], motilin [MTL], and vasoactive intestinal peptide [VIP]) were measured, and the clinical efficacy of both groups was evaluated. Correlation between pre-treatment GERDQ score and GERD-QOL score, HAMD-24 score, SDS score, and SAS score was analyzed. After treatment, the scores of GERDQ, HAMD-24, SDS, and SAS were decreased (P<0.001) and the scores of GERD-QOL were increased (P<0.001), serum levels of GAS and MTL were increased (P<0.001) in both groups, while the serum level of VIP in the acupuncture group was decreased (P<0.001) compared with those before treatment. The acupuncture group had higher GERD-QOL score and lower SAS score than the medication group (P<0.05), with lower serum VIP level (P<0.05). The total effective rate was 75.8% (25/33) in the acupuncture group, and 76.5% (26/34) in the medication group, with no significant difference between the two groups (P>0.05). GERDQ score was negatively correlated with GERD-QOL scores (r =-0.762, P<0.01) and positively correlated with HAMD-24 score, SDS score, and SAS score (r =0.709, 0.649, 0.689, P<0.01) before treatment. Based on the "heart-stomach connection" theory, acupuncture could effectively improve clinical symptoms, quality of life, and negative emotions in patients with GERD. Its mechanism may be related to the regulation of gastrointestinal hormone levels, thereby promoting the contraction of the lower esophageal sphincter.

Improvement and prognosis of anxiety and depression after total knee arthroplasty.

This study aims to analyze the improvement and prognosis of anxiety and depression in patients with knee osteoarthritis after total knee arthroplasty. A retrospective questionnaire survey was conducted on 180 patients with knee osteoarthritis who underwent total knee arthroplasty. The questionnaire consisted of a general information questionnaire, the Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) for anxiety, the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) for depression, the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), the Pittsburgh sleep quality Index (PSQI), and the American Knee Society Scores (AKSS). The same questionnaires were administered preoperatively and at 3, 6 and 12 months postoperatively, and the results were statistically analyzed. The prevalence of anxiety in preoperative knee osteoarthritis patients was 29.2% and the prevalence of depression was 37.5%. At 3, 6, and 12 months after total knee arthroplasty, anxiety and depression, pain levels, sleep disturbances, and functional status of the knee were significantly improved in patients with knee osteoarthritis compared with the preoperative period (all P<0.05). Patients with knee osteoarthritis have significant anxiety and depression before surgery, and total knee arthroplasty can significantly improve their anxiety, depression and prognosis, and should be performed as early as possible in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Associations between specific dietary patterns, gut microbiome composition, and incident subthreshold depression in Chinese young adults

IntroductionThe interplay between influential factors and the incidence of subthreshold depression (SD) in young adults remains poorly understood. ObjectivesThis study sought to understand the dietary habits, gut microbiota composition, etc. among individuals with SD in young adults and to investigate their association with SD occurrence. MethodsEmploying a cross-sectional approach, 178 individuals with SD, aged 18–32 years, were matched with 114 healthy counterparts. SD status was evaluated using the Zung Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS), Zung Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Beck Depression Inventory 2nd version (BDI-II), the 17-item Hamilton Rating Scales of Depression (HAMD-17), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Metagenomic sequencing was utilized to identify fecal microbial profiles. Dietary patterns were discerned via factor analysis of a 25-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Logistic regression analysis and mediation analysis were performed to explore the potential links between gut microbiota, dietary patterns, and incident SD. ResultsData on dietary habits were available for 292 participants (mean [SD] age, 22.1 [2.9] years; 216 [73.9 %] female). Logistic regression analysis revealed that dietary patterns Ⅰ (odds ratio [OR], 0.34; 95 % CI, 0.15–0.75) and IV (OR, 0.39; 95 % CI, 0.17–0.86 and OR, 0.39; 95 % CI, 0.18–0.84) were associated with reduced risk of SD. Distinct microbial profiles were observed in young adults with SD, marked by increased microbial diversity and taxonomic alterations. Moreover, mediation analysis suggested Veillonella atypica as a potential mediator linking SDS or BDI-II scores with a healthy dietary pattern rich in bean products, coarse grains, nuts, fruits, mushrooms, and potatoes (β = 0.25, 95 % CI: 0.02–0.78 and β = 0.18, 95 % CI: 0.01–0.54). ConclusionsOur findings highlight the complex interplay between dietary patterns, gut microbiota, and the risk of developing SD in young adults, underscoring the potential for dietary interventions and microbiome modulation in mental health promotion.

Nurse-led follow-up care versus routine health education and follow-up in diabetes patients: An effectiveness analysis.

Patients with diabetes have physical and psychological issues due to chronic illness. According to the guidelines of the Chinese Diabetes Society, after the diagnosis of patients with diabetes, they should receive routine health education, but this is the passive installation method of education. Nurses have made important contributions to the follow-up, education, and support of patients with diabetes and their families. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of nurse-led follow-up care in routine health education and follow-up for patients with diabetes. Medical records of 721 patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes were reviewed. Patients received nurse-led follow-up care including educational programs + Tai Chi exercises (patients received nurse-led follow-up care including educational programs for 6 months, n = 108), routine health education and follow-up + Tai Chi exercises (patients received routine health education and follow-up for 6 months, n = 205), or Tai Chi exercises only, but did not receive nurse-led follow-up care or routine health education and follow-up (patients received Tai Chi exercises only for 6 months, n = 408) for 6-months. The Zung Self-Rating Depression and Anxiety Scale and Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities were used to evaluate anxiety, depression, and self-care activities, respectively. Before the start of follow-up care (BFC), knowledge regarding diabetes and its threat was ≤1.75, anxiety and depression scores were ≥52 each, and self-care activities were ≤37. After 6 months of follow-up care, patients in the patients received nurse-led follow-up care including educational programs for 6 months improved their knowledge regarding diabetes and its threat, anxiety, depression, and self-care activities as compared to their before the start of follow-up care conditions and patients in the RF and patients received Tai Chi exercises only for 6 months at after 6 months of follow-up care conditions (P < .001 for all). Chinese type 1 or 2 diabetes patients had worse physical and psychological conditions and less knowledge regarding diabetes and its threat. Nurse-led aftercare, including educational programs with Tai Chi exercises for 6 months, decreased anxiety and depression and improved knowledge regarding diabetes and its threat and self-care activities in diabetic patients (Level of Evidence: IV; Technical Efficacy: Stage 5).

Latent profile analysis of vitamin D and its association with depression severity of hospitalized patients with bipolar depression

ABSTRACT Objective: Vitamin D is thought to be deficient in patients with bipolar disorder. The purpose of this study is to use latent profile analysis to identify the patterns of vitamin D levels in patients with episodes of bipolar depression, and to examine the relationship among these latent profiles and demographic and clinical characteristics. Methods: A total of 149 patients diagnosed with bipolar depression were selected in Guangzhou, China. Depression was evaluated by Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels tested at baseline and after two weeks of psychiatric treatment were included in the latent profile analysis to identify subgroups. P-trend analysis was used to assess the association between subgroups and depression improvement. Multinomial logistic regression analysis was used to assess the influencing factors of subgroups. Results: A three-profiles solution was found to demonstrate the best fit [low-level profile (32.9%), medium-level profile (51.0%), and high-level profile (16.1%)]. There was a significant nonlinear relationship between depression improvement and vitamin D high-level profile, compared to medium-level profile (P for trend <0.05). In multinomial logistic regression analysis, baseline and post-treatment SDS scores, admission season, age, and body mass index significantly affect the profile membership. Conclusions: This study found that individuals with high levels of vitamin D showed a significant improvement in depression severity. However, those with low levels of vitamin D remained deficient, indicating a need for targeted vitamin D supplementation. Our findings may provide valuable insights for designing tailored vitamin D supplement interventions to address vitamin D deficiency in bipolar depression.

Long-term Impact of Psychological Rehabilitation on Isolated Hospitalization Patients with COVID-19: A Longitudinal Study.

This study aimed to investigate the long-term effects of a psychological rehabilitation program that was effective on anxiety, depression, and quality of sleep in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. This is longitudinal study. 13 patients in the experimental group who received a psychological rehabilitation program during hospitalization and 16 patients in the control group who received conservative treatment completed the questionnaire 6 months after discharge. Questionnaires are the Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Visual Analysis Scale (VAS), and the Korean version of the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI-K). The VAS for depression significantly improved in the experimental group compared with control group at discharge (E = -2.40, p < 0.001) and follow-up (E = -3.36, p < 0.001). The SDS and PHQ-9 scores significantly improved at discharge (E = -4.05, p = 0.01 and E = -2.29, p = 0.01) but not at follow-up (E = -4.64, p = 0.12 and E = -1.81, p = 0.22). There are no significant interactions for VAS for anxiety (E = -0.27, p = 0.79), SAS scores (E = -1.48, p = 0.51), and insomnia (E = -0.69, p = 0.63) scores during the follow-up. Psychological rehabilitation showed a significant long-term reduction in depression, but not in anxiety. Therefore, continuous intervention and management of mental health are required after discharge.

Relationship between depression and sex steroid hormone among women with epilepsy.

Sex steroid hormones are emerging significant biomarkers of depression among Women with Epilepsy (WWE) with promising prognostic potential and therapeutic end point. Therefore, the study is aimed at exploring the association between sex steroids hormones, Anti-seizure Medication (ASM) and depression among WWE. A baseline questionnaire was used to obtain socio-demographics and clinical characteristic from one hundred and twelve (112) WWE and 50 age matched healthy control. The diagnosis of epilepsy and Electroencephalography (EEG) description was based on 2017 International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) criteria. Blood samples were collected from cases and control during Luteal Phase (LP) and Follicular Phase (FP). The Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (ZSRDS) was used to assess depression. The prevalence of depression among WWE is 18.8%, with a significant difference between the level of formal education (p0.000), age (p0.000), and mean ZSRDS (p0.000) among cases and control. There is a statistical difference in hormonal levels between cases and control with regards to higher testosterone [3.28 ± 9.99 vs. 0.31 ± 0.30; p0.037], lower FP prolactin [16.37 ± 20.14 vs. 17.20 ± 7.44; p0.778], and lower LP prolactin [15.74 ± 18.22 vs. 17.67 ± 7.27; p0.473]. Testosterone (p0.024), FP Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) (p0.009), FP Estradiol (p0.006), LP FSH (p0.031), LP Progesterone (p0.023), and LP Prolactin (p0.000) were associated with depression. However, only prolactin (p0.042) and testosterone (p0.000) predicts depression among WWE. There was higher mean depression score, lower prolactin and higher testosterone level among cases compared to control. Furthermore, there was lower prolactin and higher testosterone level in Carbamazepine (CBZ) group compared to Levetiracetam (LEV) groups.

Frontal Theta Asymmetry may be a new target for reducing the severity of depression and improving cognitive function in depressed patients

BackgroundThe prevalence of depressive disorder is increasing due to a variety of factors, which brings a huge strain on individuals, families and society. This study aims to investigate whether there is Frontal Theta Asymmetry (FTA) in depressed patients, and whether FTAs are related to depression severity and cognitive function changes in depressed patients. MethodsParticipants who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled in this study. Socio-demographic data of each participant were recorded. Zung's self-rating Depression Scale was used to assess the depression status of participants. P300 was used to evaluate the cognitive function of participants. EEG data from participants were collected by the NeuroScan SynAmps RT EEG system. t-test, Wilcoxon rank-sum test and Chi-square test were used to detect the differences of different variables between the two groups. Multiple linear regression analysis and multiple logistic regression analysis were used to analyze relationships between FTAs in different regions and participants' depression status and cognitive function. ResultsA total of 66 depressed participants and 47 healthy control participants were included in this study. The theta spectral power of the left frontal lobe was slightly stronger than that of the right frontal lobe in the depression group, while the opposite was true in the healthy control group. The FTA in F3/F4 had certain effects on the emergence of depression in participants, the emergence of depression in participants and Changes in cognitive function. ConclusionsFTAs are helpful to assess the severity of depression and early identify cognitive impairment in patients with depression.

Depressive symptoms, parenting attitude, and violent discipline among caregivers of left-behind children in rural China: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe situation of mental health and discipline behaviors of left-behind children’s caregivers were not optimistic in rural China. Caregivers’ depression might increase the risk of using violent discipline. However, the specific ways in which depressive symptoms impact violent discipline have rarely been explored in rural areas. This study aims to assess the prevalence of violent discipline among left-behind children under 6 years of age in rural China and explore the potential mechanisms of how caregivers’ depressive symptoms affect violent discipline.MethodsWe enrolled a total of 396 pairs of left-behind children and their caregivers in our study, which was conducted in 5 counties of Hebei, Henan, Jiangxi, Guizhou, and Sichuan provinces in China. The depressive symptoms of caregivers were measured by using Zung Self-rating Depression Scale (ZSDS) and violent discipline was assessed by the Child Discipline Module of Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS). A self-designed questionnaire was utilized to measure caregiver’s parenting attitude. Based on the cross-sectional data, controlling for potential confounders, structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to assess the direct and indirect effects of the mediation models by applying the weighted least squares with mean and variance adjusted (WLSMV) estimate.ResultsThe prevalence of violent discipline, psychological aggression, and physical punishment was 72.7%, 59.3%, and 60.4% respectively of left-behind children under 6 years of age. According to the results of SEM, parenting attitude acted as a suppressor, suppressing the association between caregivers’ depressive symptoms and physical punishment/psychological aggression/violent discipline. The caregivers’ depressive symptoms positively influenced all the outcome variables by affecting parenting attitudes (p = 0.002, p = 0.013, p = 0.002).ConclusionsThe presence of depressive symptoms in caregivers increases the use of violent discipline through negative parenting attitudes. The mental health status of primary caregivers of left-behind children in rural China needed emphasis and improvement.

Prevalence and correlates of mental health problems among different occupations of medical workers during COVID-19 outbreak in China.

Health workers involved in the fight to prevent the COVID-19 outbreak were exposed to hazards. Detailed information on mental health problems in different medical occupations is crucial. To examined the prevalence of mental health issues in three medical occupations as well as the relationships between mental health problems and correlates in each occupation. This study utilizing the Questionnaire Star program was conducted among medical workers working at medical institutions in China from February 17 to 24, 2020. The Self-Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ-20), the Zung Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), and the Zung Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS) were used to assess mental health problems. The prevalence of any mental health problems in the three occupations was 43.6, 34.6, and 32.9% for nurses, paramedical workers (PMWs), and doctors, respectively. Three occupations shared some correlates, such as being overworked, not having enough time to rest, support from colleagues, and previous mental health status. There were specific factors for each occupation. For doctors, age, educational level, living status, support from family, and previous physical status were related factors in mental health problems. Working in a designated hospital for treating COVID-19, having COVID-19 event exposures, and receiving support from family were associated with the mental health problems of the nurses. PMWs' mental health problems was linked to educational level and care from supervisors or heads of department. Different medical occupations have distinct impacts on mental health issues. Policy makers and mental health professionals working to prepare for potential disease outbreaks should be aware of multiple factors in different occupations.

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of hospital employees: single center experience

Introduction Hospital employees are at high risk of developing mental health issues during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Indeed, several studies have shown increased rates of anxiety, depression, stress, and other mental health issues but existing studies show inconsistencies, and each country has some local specificities.ObjectivesThis study aimed to investigate the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on various aspects of the mental health of hospital employees (health workers and non-health workers) from Croatia.MethodsThis cross-sectional questionnaire study was conducted from February to April 2023 period. A validated, anonymous questionnaire that contained questions regarding demographic data, as well as the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale, and the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale was self-administered to a convenient sample of hospital employees from one general hospital in northwestern Croatia.ResultsThe study sample included 360 subjects with a median age of 42 years (interquartile range 35-50), 24.7% males, and 75.3% females. According to the PSQI, 21.1% of subjects presented sleep disturbances. According to the Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale, there were 39.4% of subjects with anxiety while according to the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale, there were 6.4% of subjects with depression. Sleep disturbances were more frequent among subjects who considered their socioeconomic status as under average (p=0.040), and among health workers in comparison to non-health workers employed in hospital (p=0.040). Anxiety was more frequent among females (p=0.010), and subjects with lower levels of education (only elementary school) (p=0.040). Depression was more frequent among females (p=0.030).ConclusionsThe COVID-19 pandemic has a significant negative influence on the mental health of hospital employees where health workers in comparison to non-health workers, females, subjects with lower levels of education, and subjects who considered their socioeconomic status as under average are more prone to the development of investigated mental health issues. The development of appropriate supportive programs that enhance the mental health of all hospital employees during pandemics is needed to address mental health issues in this vulnerable population.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Validation and Psychometric Properties of the Chinese Version of the Binge Eating Scale in Young Adults.

Although structured clinical interviews are considered the gold standard for assessing binge eating disorder (BED), the self-administered Binge Eating Scale (BES) has been widely used as a screening tool for BED in clinical research. However, the psychometric properties of the BES among Chinese young adults remain unclear. This study aimed to examine the validity of a Chinese version of the BES with a large sample. A total of 2182 young adult college students were tested using the Simplified Chinese version of BES (SCBES), the 7-Item Binge-Eating Disorder Screener (BEDS-7), the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), and the Dual-Modes of Self-Control Scale (DMSC). The frequency of objective binge-eating episodes was used as a measure of severity. Validity and reliability of the SCBES were assessed through multiple analyses, along with the item analysis. The data revealed that the SCBES demonstrated reasonable reliability and validity. The Cronbach's α value was 0.813, with a one-month test-retest reliability of 0.835. The exploratory factor analysis (EFA) extracted three first-order factors, which explained a total of 53.82% of the variance. The confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) confirmed the three-factor model (ie, Binge-eating behaviors, Lack of control, Negative affects related to overeating), with a good model fit. The SCBES also demonstrated excellent concurrent and criterion validity, significantly correlating with the BEDS-7 and frequency of objective binge-eating episodes (r=0.760-0.782, p<0.001). Gender, body mass index, depression, anxiety, impulsivity, and self-control were significantly associated with the total score of SCBES. The SCBES demonstrated sound psychometric properties and exhibited good cross-cultural adaptability in Chinese young adults, with a novel three-factor model fitting the data best. This scale could serve as a useful screening tool for identifying the severity of binge eating behaviors among Chinese youths.

Changes in psychological outcomes and sleep quality following energy restriction with and without almonds

Associations between obesity and mental illness have been identified, but they are complex and bidirectional(1). Weight loss interventions have been proposed as a potential strategy to improve mental health in individuals with overweight or obesity, but the evidence remains inconclusive(2). Additionally, the role of specific foods in a weight loss diet and mental health outcomes is not well understood(3). This study aimed to explore the association between weight loss (with and without almonds) and self-administered psychological and sleep assessments, including the Profile of Mood States (POMS), the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (ZSDS), and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Participants (n = 140, 47.5 ± 10.8 years) with overweight or obesity (BMI: 30.7 ± 2.3 kg/m2) were randomised to an energy-controlled almond-enriched diet (AED) or nut-free diet (NFD). Psychological and sleep assessments were conducted at baseline, after 3 months of weight loss, and after 6 months of weight maintenance. Data were analysed using mixed-effects models and linear regression. For POMS, total mood disturbance score (TMDS) (60.2%, p = 0.01), fatigue-inertia (21.2%, p = 0.003), and vigor-activity (19.9%, p&lt;0.001) improved over time (with no different between groups), with improvements associated with the magnitude of weight loss (TMDS: β = 0.059, p = 0.02; fatigue-inertia: β = 0.268, p = 0.016; vigor-activity: β=-0.194, p = 0.048). No significant changes were observed in tension-anxiety, depression-dejection, anger-hostility, or confusion-bewilderment. A significant group x time interaction (p = 0.048) was found for the PSS, which increased in the NFD group (10.1%) and decreased in the AED (1%) during the weight maintenance phase. No significant changes were observed for the ZSDS. The PSQI demonstrated significant improvement in both groups over time for sleep quality (11.3%, p&lt;0.001), sleep latency (24.3%, p&lt;0.001), sleep disturbance (39.2%, p = 0.04), and daytime dysfunction (290.4%, p&lt;0.001), but not for sleep duration or habitual sleep efficiency. Summed scores, generating the global sleep score (GSS), demonstrated an overall significant improvement in both groups over time (33.5%, p&lt;0.001), and these improvements were associated with weight loss (GSS: β = 0.863, p&lt;0.001). The findings emphasise the importance of evaluating mental health outcomes in weight loss interventions and highlight the potential influence of weight management on mood and sleep quality. Further research is warranted to explore the impact of diet composition on perceived stress and other mental health outcomes.