IntroductionThe established link between personality and psychological well-being underscores the need to understand how major life changes, such as vision loss, reshape an individual’s disposition. While previous research has produced inconsistent findings, the roles of concurrent environmental factors and underlying neural mechanisms have remained largely unexplored.MethodsThis study employed an integrated neuro-ecological framework to investigate how blindness influences personality. We recruited 46 blind participants and 41 sighted controls, who completed comprehensive assessments including the NEO-Five-Factor Inventory, social and lifestyle questionnaires, and multimodal neuroimaging, including structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), diffusion MRI, and resting-state functional MRI.ResultsBlind participants showed higher agreeableness, extraversion, and conscientiousness, while reduced neuroticism compared to sighted controls, and these personality trait differences were attenuated after accounting for trait anxiety. These differences were partially mediated by increased perceived social support from friends. Furthermore, mobile phone usage habits showed an interaction with blindness on personality traits. Neuroimaging identified both shared and vision-specific neural correlates of personality. For instance, blindness-related changes in white matter integrity of the anterior thalamic radiation and forceps minor mediated the reduction in neuroticism. Moderated mediation models further revealed that the strength of these neural pathways was regulated by environmental factors, such as social support and mobile phone self-control.DiscussionCollectively, these results indicate that personality patterns in blindness are a dynamic process involving the interplay of neural plasticity and environmental modulation, rather than a direct consequence of sensory loss alone.
Zingerone alleviates acute seizures by reducing intrinsic hippocampal neuronal excitability in a rat model of temporal lobe epilepsy
BackgroundEpilepsy is a complex neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. Neuroinflammation and excessive neuronal excitation are key pathogenic factors, but current therapies fail to target these mechanisms effectively, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic agents. Zingerone, a bioactive compound derived from ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties. However, its acute anticonvulsant efficacy and underlying mechanism in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether zingerone exerts anticonvulsant effects by modulating neuronal excitability.MethodsA lithium chloride-pilocarpine-induced acute TLE rat model was established. Rats were randomly assigned to control, pilocarpine, and zingerone treatment groups (75, 150, and 300 mg/kg, i.p.). Seizure activity was evaluated via behavioral scoring (Racine scale) and electroencephalography (EEG). Immunohistochemistry (IHC), hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, and immunofluorescence were used to assess hippocampal microglial/astrocytic activation and neuronal damage. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings were performed to analyze intrinsic neuronal excitability and synaptic transmission in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons.ResultsAcute administration of zingerone (150 and 300 mg/kg) significantly reduced the number and duration of Racine stage IV/V generalized seizures. Zingerone dose-dependently inhibited microglial (IBA1+) and astrocytic (GFAP+) activation (p < 0.01 for 150 mg/kg; p < 0.001 for 300 mg/kg) and preserved neuronal integrity in the hippocampal CA1 region, as evidenced by reduced neuronal shrinkage, pyknosis, and increased NeuN+ neuron density. Electrophysiological recordings revealed that zingerone (10 μM) decreased the firing frequency of CA1 pyramidal neurons (p < 0.05), prolonged the inter-spike interval (p = 0.0026), reduced the action potential peak (p = 0.041), increased the rheobase current (p = 0.042), and increased afterhyperpolarization amplitude (p = 0.0001). Furthermore, Zingerone also modulated excitatory synaptic transmission onto CA1 neurons.ConclusionZingerone exerts acute anticonvulsant and neuroprotective effects in a TLE rat model by suppressing hippocampal neuroinflammation and reducing the intrinsic excitability of pyramidal neurons. These findings highlight zingerone as a promising natural compound for developing novel adjuvant therapies for drug-resistant TLE.
Exploratory assessment of cerebrospinal fluid-related microdynamics after mild traumatic brain injury using intravoxel incoherent motion magnetic resonance imaging
AimThis study aimed to characterize regional alterations in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) microdynamics following mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) using intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and compare f-value–based CSF motion between patients with TBI and healthy controls.MethodsIn this prospective observational study, 14 patients with mild TBI and 14 healthy volunteers underwent IVIM MRI using a 3-Tesla scanner. The f-value, reflecting incoherent CSF-related microfluidic motion, was quantified across predefined supratentorial and infratentorial regions of interest. Group differences in mean f-values were evaluated, and longitudinal changes were assessed in three patients who underwent follow-up MRI.ResultsThe TBI group exhibited a significantly higher mean f-value in the left cerebellopontine angle (CPA) compared with controls. Exploratory trends toward lower f-values were also observed in several supratentorial regions, including the left lateral ventricle and right frontal subarachnoid space. Longitudinal analysis revealed increasing f-values in supratentorial regions over time—suggesting partial recovery—whereas infratentorial regions demonstrated decreasing or stable trajectories.ConclusionMild TBI may be associated with region-specific alterations in CSF microdynamics, characterized by increased motion in the CPA and exploratory reductions in selected supratentorial regions. Although preliminary, these findings highlight the potential of IVIM MRI as a complementary tool for investigating post-traumatic abnormalities in CSF motion.
A novel phase-difference transcranial alternating current stimulation system enables precise dual-site neuromodulation
Precise modulation of large-scale brain networks requires neuromodulation technologies capable of delivering frequency-locked stimulation with accurate and stable inter-regional phase control. However, conventional transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) systems generally lack robust dual-channel phase regulation and are rarely validated under realistic biological impedance conditions. Here, we present a novel phase-difference tACS system (PD-stim) designed to deliver programmable, high-precision phase offsets between stimulation targets. We performed a comprehensive engineering and in vivo validation of PD-stim, assessing biological impedance stability, waveform fidelity, amplitude stability, and phase-delivery accuracy. Impedance measurements obtained from the medial prefrontal cortex and hippocampus of rats demonstrated stable frequency-dependent profiles during stimulation. Benchmark comparisons against a clinically approved tACS device revealed comparable waveform fidelity and amplitude stability under both a standardised resistive load and in vivo recording conditions. Using simultaneous dual-channel oscilloscope recordings, PD-stim consistently generated stable sinusoidal waveforms with high phase-delivery accuracy across theta (8 Hz), beta (20 Hz), and gamma (40 Hz) frequency bands, under both biological and resistive conditions. Together, these results establish PD-stim as a precise, stable, and biologically robust dual-site neuromodulation platform that overcomes key technical limitations of existing tACS systems. This work provides a rigorously validated engineering framework for future mechanistic investigations of phase-specific modulation in distributed brain networks, while not addressing functional or therapeutic outcomes.
A survey on data augmentation for EEG-based emotion recognition and cognitive workload decoding
Electroencephalography (EEG) is extensively employed in emotion recognition and cognitive workload decoding. However, signal characteristics and inter-subject variability pose significant challenges for deep learning models, particularly due to data scarcity and limited generalization. Although data augmentation (DA) is a critical approach to addressing data scarcity, a notable paucity of systematic reviews exists within deep learning frameworks focused exclusively on these two tasks. Through a systematic review of relevant literature, we summarize commonly used public EEG datasets, input representations, and deep learning classifiers. Subsequently, we focus on analyzing the specific applications and effectiveness of seven categories of DA methods in emotion recognition and cognitive workload decoding. The investigation identifies current challenges in this field, explores future research directions, and provides valuable references for researchers seeking to select and apply DA techniques to enhance model performance.
Effect of transcranial magnetic stimulation on prognosis in patients with postherpetic neuralgia and comorbid depression undergoing interventional neuromodulation therapy: protocol for a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial
BackgroundPostherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is often accompanied by depression, creating a vicious cycle that exacerbates symptoms and contributes to suboptimal treatment outcomes, even with interventional therapies. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has demonstrated potential in alleviating both pain and mood disturbances. However, its efficacy in enhancing prognosis when used alongside interventional neuromodulation therapy for PHN accompanied by depression remains inadequately explored and requires further investigation.ObjectiveThis study aims to generate preliminary evidence on the efficacy and safety of rTMS in enhancing prognosis and alleviating pain in patients with PHN and mild to moderate depression undergoing interventional neuromodulation therapy.MethodsThis study is a single-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 174 adult patients with PHN. Participants will be randomly assigned, stratified by interventional neuromodulation therapy, to either the rTMS group (n=87) or the control group (n=87). Both groups will undergo either 10 Hz rTMS or sham stimulation for five consecutive days. The primary outcome is the incidence of poor prognosis at 3 months post-discharge. Secondary outcomes include the incidence of poor prognosis at 6 months post-discharge; Visual Analog Scale (VAS) sleep scores; short-form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ) scores; Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) scores; patient satisfaction; Pain Disability Index (PDI) scores; Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory-20 (MFI-20) scores; pregabalin oral doses; and the need for tramadol or antidepressants. Safety outcomes will include assessments of headache, pain at the stimulation site, neck pain, insomnia, muscle soreness, dizziness, nausea, tinnitus, irritability, tachycardia (heart rate > 100 bpm), and epilepsy. Data will be analyzed using a modified intention-to-treat approach.DiscussionThis study aims to provide preliminary evidence on the efficacy and safety of 10 Hz rTMS in improving prognosis and alleviating pain in PHN patients with mild to moderate depression undergoing interventional pain management.Trial registrationhttps://www.chictr.org.cn/bin/project/edit?pid=261070, identifier ChiCTR2500096978.
From work-related trauma to suicidal ideation: a serial mediation model of posttraumatic stress and depression in rescue workers
ObjectivesRescue workers face frequent occupational trauma, increasing their risk for posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS), depression, and suicidal ideation. However, pathways linking trauma to suicidality remain poorly understood. This study investigated these mechanisms by testing a serial mediation model.MethodsFrom a larger survey of Swiss rescue workers, participants reporting suicidal ideation (n = 44) were matched by age, sex, and profession with a control group without suicidal ideation (n = 44). Symptomatology was assessed using validated questionnaires such as the Posttraumatic Stress Scale-10 (PTSS-10) for posttraumatic stress and the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI) for depressive symptoms. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was employed to test a serial two-mediator model: Trauma Exposure – PTSS – Depressive Symptoms – Suicidal Ideation.ResultsParticipants with suicidal ideation had significantly higher levels of trauma, PTSS, and depressive symptoms. SEM confirmed an excellent model fit (χ² = 1.925, CFI = 1.000, RMSEA <.001) and a full mediation effect: trauma exposure was associated with PTSS, which in turn related to depressive symptoms, which were subsequently linked to suicidal ideation. The specific serial indirect pathway was significant (B = 0.143, p = .011), while the direct path from trauma to suicidal ideation was non-significant. The model explained 69.4% of the variance in suicidal ideation.ConclusionThe findings suggest a developmental pathway in which trauma exposure is associated with suicidal ideation through the sequential roles of PTSS and depressive symptoms. Consequently, suicide prevention for rescue workers should prioritize the management of post-traumatic and depressive symptoms to potentially disrupt this symptomatic progression.
The efficacy and safety of transcranial direct current stimulation in patients with ADHD: a systematic review and meta-analysis
ObjectiveThis meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) for treating Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).MethodsFollowing PRISMA guidelines, we analyzed 28 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 1,864 participants. Outcomes encompassed core ADHD symptoms, hot and cold executive functions (EFs)—including inhibitory control, working memory, and cognitive flexibility—as well as safety profiles based on adverse events. A multilevel meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model. Subgroup analyses and meta-regressions were conducted to explore potential moderating factors.ResultsCompared to sham stimulation, tDCS did not significantly improve core ADHD symptoms (standardized mean difference (SMD) = –0.29, 95% CI [–0.59, 0.01], p= 0.05). Similarly, no significant overall effects were observed for cold EFs: inhibitory control (Hedges’ g(g)= –0.11, 95% CI [–0.26, 0.05], p=0.19), working memory (g= 0.13, 95% CI [–0.06, 0.32], p= 0.26), or cognitive flexibility (SMD = –0.42, 95% CI [–1.13, 0.29], p= 0.24). The effect on hot EFs was also non-significant (g = 0.27, 95% CI [–0.14, 0.70], p = 0.19). Exploratory analyses indicated that anode placement at Fp2 was associated with improvement in both inhibitory control (g= –0.52, 95% CI [–0.93, –0.11], p=0.01) and working memory (g = 0.72, 95% CI [0.22, 1.22], p = 0.004), although the overall test for interaction was not significant for inhibitory control (p= 0.19). The most common adverse reactions were mild and transient local skin symptoms, such as itching and redness (RR = 1.42, p=0.04).ConclusiontDCS was well-tolerated but did not demonstrate significant overall efficacy for core ADHD symptoms or executive functions. Anodal stimulation at Fp2 showed potential selective benefits warranting further investigation. tDCS is not currently recommended as a standalone treatment for ADHD. Future research should optimize stimulation protocols and explore combined interventions with behavioral or cognitive therapies.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, identifier CRD42024612055.
The mediating role of parental early maladaptive schemas in the relationship between parental self-efficacy and social interest in students with learning disabilities
IntroductionThe present work is investigating the mediating role of parental early maladaptive schemas in the relationship between parental self-efficacy and social interest among students with learning disabilities.MethodsThis descriptive-analytical study employed a correlational design within a structural equation modelling framework. The population of the current work consisted of all elementary school students with a formal diagnosis of Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) in Hubei, China, during the first quarter of the 2024–2025 academic year. A sample of 200 students with specific learning disabilities was selected using a convenience sampling method. The Young Schema Questionnaire-Short Form (SQ-SF), Bandura’s Parental Self-Efficacy Scale (1994), and Alizadeh and colleagues’ Social Interest Questionnaire (2013) were used. Analysis of data was conducted using path-analysis through structural equation modelling with AMOS and SPSS-24 software.Results and discussionThe findings revealed a significant positive relationship between parental self-efficacy and students’ social interest. Additionally, there was a significant negative relationship between early maladaptive schemas and both parental self-efficacy and students’ social interest. Furthermore, the results indicated that the relationship between parental self-efficacy and students’ social interest is significant. However, when the mediator variable (early maladaptive schemas) was introduced in to the model, the path coefficient decreased. So, it was concluded that the mediating role of early maladaptive schemas in the relationship between parental self-efficacy and students’ social interest was confirmed (p ≤0.05). Therefore, these findings can contribute to the development of more effective educational policies for students with learning disabilities by emphasizing the crucial role of parents in their children’s social interests and academic success.
Nonlinear relationships between fatigue, fear of COVID-19, and PTSD among mental health professionals: the findings of a multi-site survey in China
BackgroundMental health professionals (MHPs) are susceptible to fatigue, particularly during public health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. This study examined nonlinear relationships between fatigue, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and fear of COVID-19 (FOC) among MHPs.MethodsA multi-site survey was conducted from January to February 2023. Fatigue was assessed using the Fatigue Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), PTSD with the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for Civilians (PCL-C), and FOC with the Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S). Data were analyzed using logistic regression and restricted cubic splines to explore non-linear associations.ResultsOf the 9,858 COVID-recovered MHPs, the prevalence of significant PTSD symptoms (PCL-17 ≥ 50) was 6.85% (95% CI: 6.35% – 7.35%), while significant fear of COVID-19 (FOC ≥ 16) was observed in 61.28% (95% CI: 60.32% – 62.24%). Higher fatigue levels were significantly associated with increased odds for exacerbated PTSD symptomatology (OR = 1.75, 95% CI: 1.65 – 1.86, p < 0.001) and FOC severity (OR = 1.19, 95% CI: 1.16 – 1.21, p < 0.001). Restricted cubic splines analysis revealed nonlinear relationships. Specifically, as fatigue rose towards an inflection point of 5.00, its association with PTSD symptoms strengthened, while its association with FOC showed a decelerating growth.ConclusionThis study underscored fatigue as a factor significantly associated with COVID-recovered MHPs, particularly regarding the presence of PTSD and FOC. However, due to the cross-sectional study design, the direction of causality between fatigue, PTSD, and FOC could not be determined. Regular monitoring and targeted interventions are crucial for managing fatigue during public health crises. Healthcare organizations should provide appropriate work-rest schedules and supportive policies during such periods.