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Ozturk ED, Zhang Y, Lai MHC, Sakamoto MS, Chanfreau-Coffinier C, Merritt VC. Measurement Invariance of the Neurobehavioral Symptom Inventory in Male and Female Million Veteran Program Enrollees Completing the Comprehensive Traumatic Brain Injury Evaluation. Assessment 2024; 31:967-979. [PMID: 37710416 DOI: 10.1177/10731911231198214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated measurement invariance across males and females on the Neurobehavioral Symptom Inventory (NSI) in U.S. military veterans enrolled in the VA Million Veteran Program. Participants (N = 17,059; males: n = 15,450; females: n = 1,609) included Veterans who took part in the VA Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Screening and Evaluation Program and completed the NSI. Multiple-group confirmatory factor analyses investigated measurement invariance of the NSI 4-factor model. The configural (comparative fit index [CFI] = 0.948, root mean square error of approximation [RMSEA] = 0.060) and metric (CFI = 0.948, RMSEA = 0.058) invariance models showed acceptable fit. There was a minor violation of scalar invariance (Δχ2 = 232.50, p < .001); however, the degree of noninvariance was mild (ΔCFI = -0.002, Δ RMSEA = 0 . 000 ). Our results demonstrate measurement invariance across sex, suggesting that the NSI 4-factor model can be used to accurately assess symptoms in males and females following TBI. Findings highlight the importance of considering validity of measurement across study groups to increase confidence that a measure is interpreted similarly by respondents from different subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin D Ozturk
- VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS), San Diego, CA, USA
- San Diego State University and University of California San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Yichi Zhang
- University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mark H C Lai
- University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - McKenna S Sakamoto
- VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS), San Diego, CA, USA
- Penn State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | | | - Victoria C Merritt
- VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS), San Diego, CA, USA
- University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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Cole WR, Tegeler CL, Choi YS, Harris TE, Rachels N, Bellini PG, Haight TJ, Gerdes L, Tegeler CH, Roy MJ. Randomized, controlled clinical trial of acoustic stimulation to reduce postconcussive symptoms. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2024; 11:105-120. [PMID: 37990636 PMCID: PMC10791035 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Effective interventions are needed to address postconcussive symptoms. We report the results of randomized, sham-controlled trial of Cereset Research™ Standard Operating Procedures (CR-SOP), a noninvasive, closed-loop, allostatic, acoustic stimulation neurotechnology previously shown to improve insomnia. METHODS Military service members, veterans, or their spouses with persistent symptoms (Neurobehavioral Symptom Inventory [NSI] Score ≥23) after mTBI 3 months to 10 years ago, were randomized to receive 10 sessions of engineered tones linked to brainwaves (LB, intervention), or random engineered tones not linked to brainwaves (NL, sham control). The primary outcome was change in NSI, with secondary outcomes of heart rate variability and self-report measures of sleep, mood, and anxiety. RESULTS Participants (n = 106, 22% female, mean age 37.1, 2.8 deployments, 3.8 TBIs) were randomized 1:1 to LB or NL, with no significant differences between groups at baseline. Among all study participants, the NSI declined from baseline 41.0 to 27.2 after (P < 0.0001), with gains largely sustained at 3 months (31.2) and 6 months (28.4). However, there were no significant differences between the LB (NSI declined from 39.9 at baseline to 28.2 post-intervention, 31.5 at 3 months, and 29.4 at 6 months) and NL (NSI declined from 41.5 at baseline to 26.2, 29.9, and 27.3, respectively. Similar patterns were observed for the PCL5 and PHQ-9 and there was no difference in HRV between groups. INTERPRETATION Ten hours of acoustic stimulation while resting in a zero-gravity chair improves postconcussive symptoms. However, linking tones to brain electrical activity did not reduce symptoms more than random tones. REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov - NCT03649958.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesley R. Cole
- University of North CarolinaChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | | | - Y. Sammy Choi
- Womack Army Medical CenterFort BraggNorth CarolinaUSA
| | | | - Nora Rachels
- Womack Army Medical CenterFort BraggNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Paula G. Bellini
- Uniformed Services UniversityBethesdaMarylandUSA
- Henry M. Jackson FoundationRockvilleMarylandUSA
| | - Thaddeus J. Haight
- Uniformed Services UniversityBethesdaMarylandUSA
- Henry M. Jackson FoundationRockvilleMarylandUSA
| | - Lee Gerdes
- Brain State Technologies, LLCScottsdaleArizonaUSA
| | | | - Michael J. Roy
- Uniformed Services UniversityBethesdaMarylandUSA
- Walter Reed National Military Medical CenterBethesdaMarylandUSA
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3
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Chung JS, Jouk A, Licona NP, Terry JH, Harris OA. In her own words: a phenomenological analysis of stories told by female service members and veterans after traumatic brain injury. Disabil Rehabil 2023; 45:4086-4093. [PMID: 36398683 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2022.2146766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Given the majority of Service Members and Veterans (SMV) who have sustained a traumatic brain injury (TBI) are male, the female experience with TBI has not been captured in the general understanding of TBI. To improve understanding of the experience of female SMV after TBI utilizing a qualitative phenomenological approach on stories as told by female SMV. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ten female SMV participated in storytelling workshops and created video stories documenting their personal experience with TBI. Workshops were hosted by the VA Palo Alto Health Care System Polytrauma System of Care (VAPAHCS PSC). A grounded thematic analysis was conducted on the video stories. RESULTS Three common content themes emerged from all the stories: (1) negative psychological and emotional impacts of TBI, (2) acceptance and healing process associated with recovery, and (3) military contexts. Negative psychological and emotional impacts included intrapersonal impacts such as negative emotions, suicidal ideation, and dealing with cognitive and physical challenges, and interpersonal impacts in relationships and loss of independence. Notably, all the stories acknowledged an acceptance and healing process, characterized by several subthemes including motivational factors, TBI education, spirituality, and advocacy work. Lastly, each story mentioned military context, highlighting the unique experience within this population. CONCLUSIONS This phenomenological examination adds evidence-based understanding to the experience after TBI among female SMV. Each story uncovered nuanced and multifaceted issues that women experience in their TBI recovery. Our findings provide context to guide future intervention on the care, support, and TBI recovery for the female SMV population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce S Chung
- Polytrauma System of Care, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Alexandra Jouk
- Polytrauma System of Care, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Nytzia P Licona
- Polytrauma System of Care, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- University of Illinois Chicago, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer H Terry
- Polytrauma System of Care, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Odette A Harris
- Polytrauma System of Care, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
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Berman R, Spencer H, Boese M, Kim S, Radford K, Choi K. Loss of Consciousness and Righting Reflex Following Traumatic Brain Injury: Predictors of Post-Injury Symptom Development (A Narrative Review). Brain Sci 2023; 13:brainsci13050750. [PMID: 37239222 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13050750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Identifying predictors for individuals vulnerable to the adverse effects of traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains an ongoing research pursuit. This is especially important for patients with mild TBI (mTBI), whose condition is often overlooked. TBI severity in humans is determined by several criteria, including the duration of loss of consciousness (LOC): LOC < 30 min for mTBI and LOC > 30 min for moderate-to-severe TBI. However, in experimental TBI models, there is no standard guideline for assessing the severity of TBI. One commonly used metric is the loss of righting reflex (LRR), a rodent analogue of LOC. However, LRR is highly variable across studies and rodents, making strict numeric cutoffs difficult to define. Instead, LRR may best be used as predictor of symptom development and severity. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the associations between LOC and outcomes after mTBI in humans and between LRR and outcomes after experimental TBI in rodents. In clinical literature, LOC following mTBI is associated with various adverse outcome measures, such as cognitive and memory deficits; psychiatric disorders; physical symptoms; and brain abnormalities associated with the aforementioned impairments. In preclinical studies, longer LRR following TBI is associated with greater motor and sensorimotor impairments; cognitive and memory impairments; peripheral and neuropathology; and physiologic abnormalities. Because of the similarities in associations, LRR in experimental TBI models may serve as a useful proxy for LOC to contribute to the ongoing development of evidence-based personalized treatment strategies for patients sustaining head trauma. Analysis of highly symptomatic rodents may shed light on the biological underpinnings of symptom development after rodent TBI, which may translate to therapeutic targets for mTBI in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rina Berman
- Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Haley Spencer
- Program in Neuroscience, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Martin Boese
- Daniel K. Inouye Graduate School of Nursing, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Sharon Kim
- F. E. Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Kennett Radford
- Daniel K. Inouye Graduate School of Nursing, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Kwang Choi
- Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
- Daniel K. Inouye Graduate School of Nursing, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
- F. E. Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
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5
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Hanafy S, Quilico E, Haag H(L, Khoo Y(B, Munce S, Lindsay S, Colantonio A, Mollayeva T. An educational intervention to promote a culture of gender equity among persons with traumatic brain injury and caregivers: A pilot study. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2023; 4:1160850. [PMID: 37180573 PMCID: PMC10169667 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2023.1160850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Background Traumatic brain injury (TBI) outcomes are dependent on patients' biological sex (e.g., hormone levels) and sociocultural gender (e.g., norms, responsibilities). Informal caregivers additionally experience disruptions to identity and roles post-TBI. However, information on this topic remains largely unavailable to patients and caregivers. Purpose This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of a one-time educational intervention on sex and gender influences in TBI for patients and informal caregivers. Materials and methods We conducted a pilot pre-test/post-test randomized control-group design study. Groups (i.e., passive, active and control) consisted a total of 16 persons with TBI and caregivers (75% persons with TBI, 63% women). Individual and group learning gains, and group-average normalized gain, were computed for three learning domains: knowledge, attitude, and skill. An intervention with an average normalized gain of ≥30% was considered effective. Educational intervention evaluation and qualitative comments post-participation were summarized. Results The passive group demonstrated the highest average normalized gain across the three learning domains, including 100% for knowledge, 40% and 61% for attitude, and 37% for skill. The remaining groups did not reach an average normalized gain of ≥30%, except for the attitude domain of the control group (33% and 32%). Two key categories were identified qualitatively: (1) gendered self-expectations post-injury and (2) implications of gender stereotypes in rehabilitation, including the need for rehabilitation treatment to look beyond sex and gender. The post-participation educational session evaluation conveyed high appraisal of content, organization, and usability of the intervention. Conclusion A one-time passive educational intervention on sex and gender in TBI may improve knowledge, attitude, and skill on the topic of sex and gender among adults with TBI and caregivers. Obtaining knowledge and skill on sex and gender effects in TBI can potentially help persons with TBI and caregivers adapt to changes in roles and behaviours post-injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Hanafy
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- KITE-Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Enrico Quilico
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Halina (Lin) Haag
- Faculty of Social Work, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Yuelee (Ben) Khoo
- KITE-Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sarah Munce
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- KITE-Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University ofToronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sally Lindsay
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University ofToronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Angela Colantonio
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- KITE-Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University ofToronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Tatyana Mollayeva
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- KITE-Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University ofToronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Merritt VC, Chanfreau-Coffinier C, Sakamoto MS, Jak AJ, Delano-Wood L. Characterizing Sex Differences in Clinical and Functional Outcomes Among Military Veterans with a Comprehensive Traumatic Brain Injury Evaluation (CTBIE): A Million Veteran Program (MVP) Study. Clin Psychol Sci 2022; 2022:10.1177/21677026221100230. [PMID: 36714216 PMCID: PMC9881235 DOI: 10.1177/21677026221100230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Using a diverse sample of military Veterans enrolled in the VA's Million Veteran Program (N=14,378; n=1,361 females [9.5%]; all previously deployed), we examined sex differences on the Comprehensive Traumatic Brain Injury Evaluation (CTBIE), a structured traumatic brain injury (TBI) interview routinely administered within the VA. Confirmed TBI diagnoses were more frequent among males than females (65% vs. 58%). Additionally, when compared to females, a greater proportion of males with CTBIE-confirmed TBI histories experienced blast-related injuries and were employed. In contrast, a greater proportion of females reported experiencing falls, sustaining a TBI since deployment, and having more severe neurobehavioral symptoms (particularly affective-related symptoms). Results indicate that males and females experience differential clinical and functional outcomes in the aftermath of military TBI. Findings underscore the need to increase female representation in TBI research to increase understanding of sex-specific experiences with TBI and to improve the clinical care targeted to this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria C. Merritt
- Research & Psychology Services, VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS), San Diego, CA, United States,Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States,Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VASDHS, San Diego, CA, United States,Address correspondence to: Victoria C. Merritt, Ph.D., VA San Diego Healthcare System (151B), 3350 La Jolla Village Drive, San Diego, CA 92161, Phone: (858) 552-8585 (x2670),
| | - Catherine Chanfreau-Coffinier
- VA Informatics and Computing Infrastructure (VINCI), VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - McKenna S. Sakamoto
- Research & Psychology Services, VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS), San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Amy J. Jak
- Research & Psychology Services, VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS), San Diego, CA, United States,Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States,Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VASDHS, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Lisa Delano-Wood
- Research & Psychology Services, VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS), San Diego, CA, United States,Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States,Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VASDHS, San Diego, CA, United States
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7
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Adamson MM, Main K, Harris OA, Kang X. Sex differences in cortical thickness and diffusion properties in patients with traumatic brain injury: a pilot study. Brain Inj 2022; 36:488-502. [PMID: 35113752 DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2022.2034046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cortical thickness and diffusion properties are important measures of gray and white matter integrity in those with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Many studies show that healthy adult females have greater cortical thickness than males across numerous brain sites. In this study, we explored this sex difference in patients with TBI. METHOD Participants consisted of 32 patients with TBI and 21 neurologically healthy controls. All were scanned by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Differences in cortical thickness and diffusion properties were examined between groups (i.e., TBI/control, male/female). RESULTS Patients with TBI had more cortical thinning (both hemispheres) compared to controls. They also showed decreased fractional anisotropy (FA) for several major white matter tracts. Healthy females had significantly greater cortical thickness compared to healthy males. However, this difference was smaller among the patients with TBI. We found no sex differences in diffusion properties. There were moderate correlations between cortical thickness, diffusion properties, and cognitive performance, as measured by the Trail Making Test B. CONCLUSION These findings contribute to a growing discussion on sex differences in cortical thickness and diffusion properties. Sexual dimorphism could necessitate different clinical profiles, targets, and rehabilitation strategies in patients with TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maheen M Adamson
- Rehabilitation Service, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Keith Main
- Research Division, Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA.,General Dynamics Information Technology, Falls Church, Virginia, USA
| | - Odette A Harris
- Rehabilitation Service, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Xiaojian Kang
- Rehabilitation Service, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA
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Baskin B, Lee SJ, Skillen E, Wong K, Rau H, Hendrickson RC, Pagulayan K, Raskind MA, Peskind ER, Phillips PEM, Cook DG, Schindler AG. Repetitive Blast Exposure Increases Appetitive Motivation and Behavioral Inflexibility in Male Mice. Front Behav Neurosci 2022; 15:792648. [PMID: 35002648 PMCID: PMC8727531 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2021.792648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Blast exposure (via detonation of high explosives) represents a major potential trauma source for Servicemembers and Veterans, often resulting in mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). Executive dysfunction (e.g., alterations in memory, deficits in mental flexibility, difficulty with adaptability) is commonly reported by Veterans with a history of blast-related mTBI, leading to impaired daily functioning and decreased quality of life, but underlying mechanisms are not fully understood and have not been well studied in animal models of blast. To investigate potential underlying behavioral mechanisms contributing to deficits in executive functioning post-blast mTBI, here we examined how a history of repetitive blast exposure in male mice affects anxiety/compulsivity-like outcomes and appetitive goal-directed behavior using an established mouse model of blast mTBI. We hypothesized that repetitive blast exposure in male mice would result in anxiety/compulsivity-like outcomes and corresponding performance deficits in operant-based reward learning and behavioral flexibility paradigms. Instead, results demonstrate an increase in reward-seeking and goal-directed behavior and a congruent decrease in behavioral flexibility. We also report chronic adverse behavioral changes related to anxiety, compulsivity, and hyperarousal. In combination, these data suggest that potential deficits in executive function following blast mTBI are at least in part related to enhanced compulsivity/hyperreactivity and behavioral inflexibility and not simply due to a lack of motivation or inability to acquire task parameters, with important implications for subsequent diagnosis and treatment management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Britahny Baskin
- VA Northwest Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, United States.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Suhjung Janet Lee
- VA Northwest Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Emma Skillen
- VA Northwest Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, United States.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Katrina Wong
- VA Northwest Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, United States.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Holly Rau
- VA Northwest Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Rebecca C Hendrickson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,VA Northwest Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Kathleen Pagulayan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,VA Northwest Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Murray A Raskind
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,VA Northwest Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Elaine R Peskind
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,VA Northwest Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Paul E M Phillips
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - David G Cook
- VA Northwest Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, United States.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Abigail G Schindler
- VA Northwest Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, United States.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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9
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Ozturk ED, Chanfreau-Coffinier C, Sakamoto MS, Delano-Wood L, Merritt VC. Characterization of Million Veteran Program (MVP) enrollees with Comprehensive Traumatic Brain Injury Evaluation (CTBIE) data: An analysis of neurobehavioral symptoms. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 145:230-242. [PMID: 34942434 PMCID: PMC9401093 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.12.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine neurobehavioral symptom reporting in a large sample of military veterans (N = 12,144) who completed the Comprehensive Traumatic Brain Injury Evaluation (CTBIE) and enrolled in the VA's Million Veteran Program (MVP). The CTBIE is a clinician-administered interview that assesses for historical, deployment-related traumatic brain injury (TBI) and evaluates symptoms using the Neurobehavioral Symptom Inventory (NSI). Clinicians completing the CTBIE made clinical determinations about participants' (1) TBI diagnostic status (i.e., CTBIE+ or CTBIE-) and (2) current symptom etiology (i.e., Symptom Resolution, TBI, Behavioral Health, Comorbid TBI + Behavioral Health [Comorbid], or Other). We evaluated the association of TBI diagnostic status and symptom etiology group with neurobehavioral symptoms. Results showed a significant association between TBI diagnostic status and all NSI variables, with CTBIE+ veterans endorsing greater symptoms than CTBIE- veterans. There was also a significant association between symptom etiology group and all NSI variables; specifically, the Comorbid and Behavioral Health groups generally endorsed significantly greater symptoms compared to the other groups. Follow-up analyses showed that relative to the Symptom Resolution group, the Comorbid and Behavioral Health groups had increased odds of severe/very severe cognitive and affective symptoms, whereas the TBI and Other groups did not. Finally, presence of psychiatric symptoms, pain, post-traumatic amnesia, loss of consciousness, and blast exposure significantly predicted Comorbid symptom etiology group membership. Findings from this large epidemiologic MVP study have relevant clinical implications and further highlight the importance of prioritizing integrated behavioral health interventions for this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin D Ozturk
- San Diego State University/University of California, San Diego Joint Doctoral Program, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Catherine Chanfreau-Coffinier
- VA Informatics and Computing Infrastructure (VINCI), VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - McKenna S Sakamoto
- Research & Psychology Services, VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS), San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Lisa Delano-Wood
- Research & Psychology Services, VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS), San Diego, CA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States; Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VASDHS, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Victoria C Merritt
- Research & Psychology Services, VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS), San Diego, CA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States; Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VASDHS, San Diego, CA, United States.
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10
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Valera EM, Joseph ALC, Snedaker K, Breiding MJ, Robertson CL, Colantonio A, Levin H, Pugh MJ, Yurgelun-Todd D, Mannix R, Bazarian JJ, Turtzo LC, Turkstra LS, Begg L, Cummings DM, Bellgowan PSF. Understanding Traumatic Brain Injury in Females: A State-of-the-Art Summary and Future Directions. J Head Trauma Rehabil 2021; 36:E1-E17. [PMID: 33369993 PMCID: PMC9070050 DOI: 10.1097/htr.0000000000000652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In this report, we identify existing issues and challenges related to research on traumatic brain injury (TBI) in females and provide future directions for research. In 2017, the National Institutes of Health, in partnership with the Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine and the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center, hosted a workshop that focused on the unique challenges facing researchers, clinicians, patients, and other stakeholders regarding TBI in women. The goal of this "Understanding TBI in Women" workshop was to bring together researchers and clinicians to identify knowledge gaps, best practices, and target populations in research on females and/or sex differences within the field of TBI. The workshop, and the current literature, clearly highlighted that females have been underrepresented in TBI studies and clinical trials and have often been excluded (or ovariectomized) in preclinical studies. Such an absence in research on females has led to an incomplete, and perhaps inaccurate, understanding of TBI in females. The presentations and discussions centered on the existing knowledge regarding sex differences in TBI research and how these differences could be incorporated in preclinical and clinical efforts going forward. Now, a little over 2 years later, we summarize the issues and state of the science that emerged from the "Understanding TBI in Women" workshop while incorporating updates where they exist. Overall, despite some progress, there remains an abundance of research focused on males and relatively little explicitly on females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eve M Valera
- Departments of Psychiatry (Dr Valera) and Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine (Dr Mannix), Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts (Dr Valera and Ms Joseph); Department of Psychology, Suffolk University, Boston, Massachusetts (Ms Joseph); PINK Concussions, Norwalk, Connecticut (Ms Snedaker); Division of Injury Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia (Dr Breiding); US Public Health Service, Rockville, Maryland (Dr Breiding); Departments of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, and Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland (Dr Robertson); Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Dr Colantonio); Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas (Dr Levin); Michael E. Debakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas (Dr Levin); VA Salt Lake City Healthcare System, Salt Lake City, Utah (Drs Pugh and Yurgelun-Todd); Department of Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City (Dr Pugh); Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City (Dr Yurgelun-Todd); Division of Emergency Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts (Dr Mannix); Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York (Dr Bazarian); Neuroscience Center (Drs Cummings and Bellgowan), National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (Dr Turtzo), and Office of Research on Women's Health, Office of the Director/DPCPSI (Dr Begg), National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; and School of Rehabilitation Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada (Dr Turkstra)
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11
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Young G. Thirty Complexities and Controversies in Mild Traumatic Brain Injury and Persistent Post-concussion Syndrome: a Roadmap for Research and Practice. PSYCHOLOGICAL INJURY & LAW 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s12207-020-09395-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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12
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Sex Differences in Neuromodulation Treatment Approaches for Traumatic Brain Injury: A Scoping Review. J Head Trauma Rehabil 2020; 35:412-429. [PMID: 33165154 DOI: 10.1097/htr.0000000000000631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Neuromodulatory brain stimulation interventions for traumatic brain injury (TBI)-related health sequelae, such as psychiatric, cognitive, and pain disorders, are on the rise. Because of disproportionate recruitment and epidemiological reporting of TBI-related research in men, there is limited understanding of TBI development, pathophysiology, and treatment intervention outcomes in women. With data suggesting sex-related variances in treatment outcomes, it is important that these gaps are addressed in emerging, neuromodulatory treatment approaches for TBI populations. METHODS Four research databases (PubMED, EMBASE, CINAHL, and PsycINFO) were electronically searched in February 2020. DESIGN This PRISMA Scoping Review (PRISMA-ScR)-guided report contextualizes the importance of reporting sex differences in TBI + neuromodulatory intervention studies and summarizes the current state of reporting sex differences when investigating 3 emerging interventions for TBI outcomes. RESULTS Fifty-four studies were identified for the final review including 12 controlled trials, 16 single or case series reports, and 26 empirical studies. Across all studies reviewed, 68% of participants were male, and only 7 studies reported sex differences as a part of their methodological approach, analysis, or discussion. CONCLUSION This review is hoped to update the TBI community on the current state of evidence in reporting sex differences across these 3 neuromodulatory treatments of post-TBI sequelae. The proposed recommendations aim to improve future research and clinical treatment of all individuals suffering from post-TBI sequelae.
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13
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McCabe JT, Tucker LB. Sex as a Biological Variable in Preclinical Modeling of Blast-Related Traumatic Brain Injury. Front Neurol 2020; 11:541050. [PMID: 33101170 PMCID: PMC7554632 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.541050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Approaches to furthering our understanding of the bioeffects, behavioral changes, and treatment options following exposure to blast are a worldwide priority. Of particular need is a more concerted effort to employ animal models to determine possible sex differences, which have been reported in the clinical literature. In this review, clinical and preclinical reports concerning blast injury effects are summarized in relation to sex as a biological variable (SABV). The review outlines approaches that explore the pertinent role of sex chromosomes and gonadal steroids for delineating sex as a biological independent variable. Next, underlying biological factors that need exploration for blast effects in light of SABV are outlined, including pituitary, autonomic, vascular, and inflammation factors that all have evidence as having important SABV relevance. A major second consideration for the study of SABV and preclinical blast effects is the notable lack of consistent model design—a wide range of devices have been employed with questionable relevance to real-life scenarios—as well as poor standardization for reporting of blast parameters. Hence, the review also provides current views regarding optimal design of shock tubes for approaching the problem of primary blast effects and sex differences and outlines a plan for the regularization of reporting. Standardization and clear description of blast parameters will provide greater comparability across models, as well as unify consensus for important sex difference bioeffects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph T McCabe
- Pre-clinical Studies Core, Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Bethesda, IL, United States.,Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Genetics, F.E. Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Laura B Tucker
- Pre-clinical Studies Core, Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Bethesda, IL, United States.,Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Genetics, F.E. Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
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14
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Gazdzinski LM, Mellerup M, Wang T, Adel SAA, Lerch JP, Sled JG, Nieman BJ, Wheeler AL. White Matter Changes Caused by Mild Traumatic Brain Injury in Mice Evaluated Using Neurite Orientation Dispersion and Density Imaging. J Neurotrauma 2020; 37:1818-1828. [PMID: 32242488 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2020.6992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is common and can lead to persistent cognitive and behavioral symptoms. Although diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) has demonstrated some sensitivity to changes in white matter following mTBI, recent studies have suggested that more complex geometric models of diffusion, including the neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI) model, may be more sensitive and specific. Here, we evaluate microstructural changes in white matter following mTBI using DTI and NODDI in a mouse model, and compare the time course of these changes to behavioral impairment and recovery. We also assess volumetric changes for a comprehensive picture of the structural alterations in the brain and histological staining to identify cellular changes that may contribute to the differences detected in the imaging data. Increased orientation dispersion index (ODI) was observed in the optic tracts of mTBI mice compared with shams. Changes in fractional anisotropy (FA) were not statistically significant. Volume deficits were detected in the optic tract as well as in several gray matter regions: the lateral geniculate nuclei of the thalamus, the entorhinal cortex, and the superior colliculi. Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba1) staining was increased in the optic tracts of mTBI brains, and this staining correlated with ODI values. A transient impairment in working memory was observed, which resolved by 6 weeks, whereas increased ODI, GFAP, and Iba1 persisted to 18 weeks post-injury. We conclude that the optic tracts are particularly vulnerable to damage from the closed-skull impact model used in this study, and that ODI may be a more sensitive metric to this damage than FA. Differences in ODI and in histological measures of astrogliosis, neuroinflammation, and axonal degeneration persist beyond behavioral impairment in this model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Gazdzinski
- Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Miranda Mellerup
- Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Physiology and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tong Wang
- Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Physiology and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Seyed Amir Ali Adel
- Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Physiology and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason P Lerch
- Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - John G Sled
- Translational Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Mouse Imaging Centre at The Centre for Phenogenomics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brian J Nieman
- Translational Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Mouse Imaging Centre at The Centre for Phenogenomics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anne L Wheeler
- Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Physiology and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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