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The last nine months have been not short of challenging, overwhelming, heart-acheing individual and collective experiences which have and probably will continue to shape our ways of living for generations to come. This paper aims to provide a space in which to reflect and revisit our understanding of well-being and its implementation in light of these past few months and the continuous obstacles faced. It endeavours to offer some thoughts on how this unique time could be experienced to our advantage, and even in light of extreme pressure, stresses, and losses, how this opportunity for reflection can advise and guide our thinking and behaviours, values and beliefs, to new hopes and discovery that will hopefully provide some level of solace, inner strength and transformative growth. Through selected five pillars of well-being all discussed in turns, it aims to challenge and present alternative understanding and application of these pillars, that can hopefully continue to develop and grow as we are all exposed to new lived experiences. It concludes by inviting other colleagues and individuals in their own quest for making-sense and meaning-making of these challenging times.

Introduction: Decreased plasma BDNF (pBDNF) levels have been proposed as a biomarker in the illness phases of mood disorders. This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the pBDNF and BDNF promoters' DNA methylation levels in workers exposed to occupational stress and suffering from work-related stress disorders. Methods: the pBDNF and BDNF exon I and IV promoters' methylation levels were measured by specific immunoassays and methylation-sensitive high-resolution melting (MS-HRM) in 62 patients with adjustment disorders (AD), 79 patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and 44 healthy controls. Occupational stress was evaluated in the patients and controls using the Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ). Results: the pBDNF levels were significantly higher in the MDD (p < 0.001) and AD (p < 0.0001) patients than in the controls. The MDD patients showed significantly lower pBDNF levels than the AD ones (p = 0.01). The BDNF exon I and IV promoters' methylation levels were significantly higher in the MDD patients than in the AD ones (exon I promoter: p = 0.0001, exon IV promoter: p < 0.0001) and controls (exon I promoter: p = 0.0001, exon IV promoter: p < 0.0001). In the patients, but not in the controls, the BDNF promoters' methylation levels showed significant negative correlations with occupational stress. Conclusions: BDNF could play a key role in the pathophysiology of stress-related disorders and the peripheral elevation of it observed in patients exposed to occupational stress could suggest a protective mechanism for neurons from stress-mediated damage. The elevation of the pBDNF levels, even in MDD, may characterize a "reactive" subtype of depressive episode, while the significant elevation of the BDNF promoters' methylation levels in depressed patients could indicate a predisposition to more severe illness under stress. Further research is needed, focusing on biomarkers for stress-related disorders as a potential tool for the diagnosis and prevention of occupational diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is increasing evidence that the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is involved in the pathophysiology of mood disorders and that its peripheral levels represent a reliable mirror of its concentration in the brain. The aim of the present study was to measure BDNF plasma levels in patients affected by major depression and to explore the possible relationship between the biological parameter and characteristics of the illness., Method: BDNF plasma levels were evaluated in 30 inpatients suffering from major depression, according to DSM-IV criteria, by means of a commonly employed ELISA method. The clinical characteristics were assessed by the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD) and the Clinical Global Impression Scale., Results: BDNF plasma levels were significantly lower in the patients with the severest illness compared with the others, and the same was true for patients with dissociative symptoms, severe sleep disturbance and recurrent depression. A significant and negative correlation was observed between the biological parameter and the retardation factor score of the HRSD., Conclusion: These findings suggest that low BDNF levels are related to both recurrence and severity of depression, as well as to symptoms typical of dysfunctions of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis., (Copyright © 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel.)

There is an increasing evidence that the Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) could be involved in the mode of action of antidepressants and, perhaps, of ECT. This study aimed to investigate whether the clinical course of medication-resistant depressed patients following a course of ECT might be associated with changes of plasma BDNF concentrations. Our findings showed that at T0 (baseline) plasma BDNF levels of patients were significantly lower than those of control subjects, and that at T2 (after ECT) were significantly increased in parallel with the decrease of the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD) total score. However, only remitter patients who showed higher baseline BDNF levels than non-remitters reached normalized BDNF levels after ECT. These findings would suggest the potential usefulness of baseline plasma BDNF levels as predictors of response to ECT in treatment-resistant depressed patients.

Scant information is available on the diurnal variation of peripheral neurotrophic factors, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), in human beings. We explored plasma and serum BDNF levels at three different clock times in a study of 28 healthy subjects of both sexes. Statistically significant diurnal variation in plasma BDNF level was detected in men, with the peak at 08:00 h and nadir at 22:00 h. At this time, the plasma BDNF concentration of men was significantly lower than that of women (p=.02). However, no diurnal variation was found either in plasma BDNF of women, in either the follicular or luteal phases of the menstrual cycle, or in serum BDNF level in both men and women. These findings support the concept of rhythmic variation in plasma BDNF regulation that seems to be sex-related.

Background: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been hypothesized to be involved in the neurobiology of major depression. The aim of this study was to assess the possible relationships between depressive symptoms and serum and/or plasma BDNF levels during 1 year of antidepressant treatment., Methods: Plasma and serum BDNF levels were assayed in 15 drug-free depressed patients and in 15 healthy control subjects at baseline and the 1st, 3rd, 6th and 12th month of antidepressant treatment., Results: At baseline, patients' serum and plasma BDNF levels were significantly lower (p<.001 and p=.004, respectively) than those found in healthy control subjects. However, while from the 1st month of treatment patients' plasma BDNF levels did not differ significantly from those observed in healthy control subjects, serum BDNF levels in patients remained significantly lower at all times., Limitations: The main limitations of the current study are represented by the small sample size and the high discontinuation rate., Conclusions: Untreated depressed patients showed reduced baseline serum and plasma BDNF levels, as compared with control subjects. The clinical improvement paralleled the normalization of plasma BDNF after 1 month of treatment, while, at every assessment time, patients' serum BDNF levels were lower than those of control subjects. This would suggest that serum BDNF might represent a non-specific trait marker of depression.

The aim of this study was to characterize the health-related quality of life (HR-QOL) and functioning in 90 bipolar I remitted outpatients. According to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders IV remission specifiers, patients were categorized into 4 groups: group 1, fully remitted; group 2, less than 2 months remitted; group 3, with persisting manic symptoms; group 4, with persisting depressive symptoms. The severity of psychopathology was evaluated by using the Bech-Rafaelsen Mania-Melancholia Scale. The HR-QOL, functioning, and insight were assessed via the medical outcomes study 36-item short form, the global assessment of functioning scale, and the scale to assess unawareness of mental disorder, respectively. Fully remitted patients reported the highest scores in almost all domains of medical outcomes study 36-item short form, and had significantly higher scores on physical functioning, general health, social functioning, and mental health compared to patients with persisting depressive symptoms. Furthermore, patients with persisting manic symptoms reported significantly higher scores on general health, vitality and mental health than the group with persisting depressive symptoms. In contrast, the global assessment of functioning scale score differed among the 4 groups, with fully remitted patients reporting higher, although not statistically significant, scores than the other groups. Our data suggest that the persistence of depressive or manic symptoms seem to affect self-report measures of HR-QOL. An affectively biased cognition may explain the gap between patient's perception of functioning and estimated functional adjustment, as assessed by clinicians.

The neurotrophic growth factor brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a crucial role in various neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia and depression. BDNF has been proposed as a potential biomarker for diagnosis, prognosis and monitoring therapy. Understanding the factors influencing BDNF levels and whether they follow a circadian rhythm is essential for interpreting fluctuations in BDNF measurements. We aimed to investigate the circadian rhythm of BDNF by collecting multiple peripheral venous blood samples from young, healthy male participants at 12 different time points over 24 h. In addition, vital parameters, cortisol and insulin like growth factor 1 (IGF1) were measured to explore potential regulatory mechanisms, interfering variables and their correlations with BDNF concentration. The findings revealed that plasma BDNF did not exhibit any significant fluctuations over 24 h, suggesting the absence of a circadian rhythm. However, serum BDNF levels decreased during sleep. Furthermore, serum BDNF showed a positive correlation with heart rate but a negative correlation with IGF1. No significant correlation was observed between cortisol and BDNF or IGF1. Although plasma BDNF suggests steady‐state conditions, the decline of serum BDNF during the nocturnal period could be attributed to physical inactivity and associated with reduced haemodynamic blood flow (heart rate reduction during sleep). The type of sample collection (peripheral venous cannula vs. blood sampling using a butterfly system) does not significantly affect the measured BDNF levels. The sample collection during the day did not significantly affect BDNF analysis, emphasizing the importance of considering activity levels rather than timing when designing standardized protocols for BDNF assessments. What is the central question of this study?How does the circadian rhythm potentially influence peripheral brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, and what has to be taken into consideration when interpretating BDNF levels in serum or plasma as potential biomarkers in neurodegenerative or psychiatric diseases?What is the main finding and its importance?Although plasma BDNF levels remain relatively stable over 24 h, serum BDNF exhibits a significant nocturnal decline, potentially linked to physical inactivity during sleep. Understanding this rhythm and the factors influencing BDNF levels is crucial for accurate interpretation of BDNF measurements, emphasizing the need to consider activity levels in standardized protocols for BDNF assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of mental health illness is on the rise throughout the world. Mental health is increasingly one of the most overwhelming conditions that has an effect on the social functioning of individuals and families within communities. Mental Health Care Act, No 17 of 2002 of the South African government provides for the protection of individuals and communities against mental health. Still, people continue to experience mental health problems at a high rate. Social workers have a fundamental role to play in improving mental health services and outcomes for communities. Social work services have the potential to improve the lives of people with mental health conditions and build resilience in individuals and families. Resilience is a critical technique that assists individuals to function properly despite the challenges they may have experienced. Research has shown that people with mental health problems struggle to return back to normality. This article aims to explore the roles of social work intervention in promoting mental health and resilience in communities. The study was conducted by analyzing research or studies related to mental health and resilience. The study carried out comprehensive desktop electronic research to gather data and themes from previous studies. The analysis showed that mental health is still a major concern, and social workers have an important role to play in building resilience for individuals and families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This brief report aims to present and reflect on the lessons learnt from practice with an individual case professional dancer who sought comprehensive psychological support as a result of a trauma-injury ruptured Achilles tendon during a live performance. Method & Results: A professional elite ballet dancer received a total of 12 sessions delivered weekly lasting 60 minutes each session. Rehabilitation post-surgery included physiotherapy, strength and conditioning, pilates, nutrition and psychological support as part of a comprehensive package. Quantitative data through the PANAS questionnaire (Watson et al., 1988) was administered at baseline, midpoint and at the end of the sessions. Three main themes emerged as acquired skills through psychological interventions: 1) self-confidence and self-esteem, 2) a renewed sense of belonging, and 3) a sense of autonomy. Discussion & Conclusions: A dancers' centred approach in providing psychological support for a comprehensive rehabilitation program where transdisciplinary interlinked approaches benefited the recovery from injury to full recovery. Reflections highlight the importance of positive person-centred psychological models of practice, the Rogerian foundations of authenticity, non-judgemental and guiding principles of recovery and the clinician positionality, active listening and compassion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supporting high-level performance is increasingly seen as a team game, reflected in the growth in support services. Coaches and management must work effectively with various practitioners to deliver the required support to athletes. To date, how coaches experience these support teams has yet to be explored. Accordingly, we utilized a qualitative research design with semistructured interviews to examine coach-consumers' perceptions of more or less effective practice. Eight high-level coaches were recruited, and data was analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Key themes generated included the make-up and conduct of high-performing teams, prioritizing coach–practitioner relationships, and professional development considerations for both coaches and practitioners. Data suggest that practitioners are seen as playing a crucial role in elite sports performance, and coaches generally have a positive view of the contributions of sports science teams. Notably, however, several challenges were identified, including communication issues, conflicts over the allocation of resources, recruitment of, and the need for sports scientists to understand the demands of sports and the coaching process. Findings have practical implications for support teams and coaches working in high-performance sports; specifically, in the recruitment and development of sports science and medicine practitioners and coaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Evidence has demonstrated the roles of inflammatory processes in pathogenesis of depression. We aim to assess the effects of adjunctive celecoxib with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), an anti-inflammatory agent, in treatment of postpartum depression and on levels of Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and inflammatory cytokines. Methods: This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to investigate the effects of adjunctive celecoxib with CBT on postpartum depression. Fifty outpatient women with postpartum depression, participated in this study. Patients randomly received either a celecoxib capsule twice a day or a placebo capsule twice a day for 6 weeks. Patients were assessed using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) and the adverse event checklist at baseline and weeks 2, 4, and 6. Results: Patients in the celecoxib group showed a greater decline in HDRS scores from baseline to all three study time points compared to the placebo group (p = 0.12 for week 2, p = 0.001 for week 4, p < 0.001 for week 6). Rate of response to treatment was significantly higher in the celecoxib group compared to the placebo group at week 4 (60 vs 24%, p = 0.010) and week 6 (96 vs 44%, p < 0.001). Rate of remission was significantly higher in the celecoxib group compared to the placebo group at week 4 (52 vs 20%, p = 0.018) and week 6 (96 vs 36%, p < 0.001). Levels of most inflammatory markers were significantly lower in the celecoxib group compared to the placebo group at week 6. Levels of BDNF were significantly higher in the celecoxib group compared to the placebo group at week 6 (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Findings suggest adjunctive celecoxib is an effective treatment for the improvement of postpartum depressive symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a highly disabling mental disorder arising after traumatism exposure, often revealing critical and complex courses when comorbidity with bipolar disorder (BD) occurs. To search for PTSD or depression biomarkers that would help clinicians define BD presentations, this study aimed at preliminarily evaluating circulating brain-derived-neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in BD subjects with PTSD or experiencing a major depressive episode versus controls. Two bloodstream BDNF components were specifically investigated, the storage (intraplatelet) and the released (plasma) ones, both as adaptogenic/repair signals during neuroendocrine stress response dynamics. Bipolar patients with PTSD (n = 20) or in a major depressive episode (n = 20) were rigorously recruited together with unrelated healthy controls (n = 24) and subsequently examined by psychiatric questionnaires and blood samplings. Platelet-poor plasma (PPP) and intraplatelet (PLT) BDNF were measured by ELISA assays. The results showed markedly higher intraplatelet vs. plasma BDNF, confirming platelets' role in neurotrophin transport/storage. No between-group PPP-BDNF difference was reported, whereas PLT-BDNF was significantly reduced in depressed BD patients. PLT-BDNF negatively correlated with mood scores but not with PTSD items like PPP-BDNF, which instead displayed opposite correlation trends with depression and manic severity. Present findings highlight PLT-BDNF as more reliable at detecting depression than PTSD in BD, encouraging further study into BDNF variability contextually with immune-inflammatory parameters in wider cohorts of differentially symptomatic bipolar patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Recent evidence reported mental health issues in university students such as anxiety and depressive symptoms and poor sleep quality. Decreased plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels have been proposed as a biomarker of depressive symptoms, whereas cortisol levels are an index of energy mobilization and stress and have been linked to sleep quality. Given that salivary biomarkers represent an interesting new field of research, the aim of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate salivary BDNF and cortisol levels in university students to assess whether they have associations with psychological disturbances such as anxiety and depressive symptoms, sleep quality, and stress level. Methods: Salivary BDNF and cortisol levels were measured by specific immunoassays in 70 students whose mental health was also evaluated on the same day through the evaluation of anxiety and depression symptoms (Goldberg scale), sleep quality (Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index and Athens Insomnia Scale), and stress (self-perceived stress scale) and healthy lifestyle habits (alcohol consumption, smoking, regular exercise, and body mass index) were also measured. Multivariate regression analyses were performed in order to identify the strengths of associations between psychological alterations and the concentrations of BDNF, cortisol, and other variables. Results: Salivary BDNF levels were significantly higher in students with more depressive symptoms, whereas no significant differences were found for cortisol levels. When performing the binary logistic regression model, BDNF levels are included as a predictor variable for a high-depressive-symptoms burden (p < 0.05). Students with worse sleep quality on the Pittsburg Scale had higher cortisol levels (p < 0.05). The subdomains of sleep latency and sleep medication were those significantly associated with salivary cortisol levels in logistic regression analyses (OR = 15.150, p = 0.028). Sleep medication only appeared to be related to cortisol levels (OR = 185.142, p = 0.019). Perceived stress levels and anxiety symptoms were not associated with BDNF or cortisol levels. Conclusions: BDNF could play a key role in the pathophysiology of mood-related disorders, and elevation of its peripheral levels could contribute to protecting neurons from the development of mental illness. Higher salivary cortisol levels measured in the morning are accompanied by poorer sleep quality. More research is needed, focusing on salivary biomarkers of disorders related to depressive symptoms and poor sleep quality as a potential tool for the diagnosis and prevention of mental illness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Past studies examined the role of performing arts within a STEM-based curriculum, but there has been little research to date on how to fully integrate the two into one unified program at the higher education level. A qualitative study was conducted utilizing a phenomenological approach vis-à-vis four focus groups with students engaged in the Performing Arts Scholarship Program at Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, NY. The commitment-trust theory of relationship marketing as well as self-efficacy theory were considered to ground the theoretical framework surrounding the success of the program and the experiences of a sample of 951 Performing Arts Scholars. Entering its fourth year of existence in fall 2022, the RIT Performing Arts Scholarship Program continues to evolve. Very little data has been collected as of the time of this study on the success of this program or the shared experiences of the students participating in performing arts at RIT. The results of this study confirmed that students are seeking to further blur the boundaries between the STEM and liberal arts degrees they are pursuing and their talents and passions in the performing arts. The researcher also uncovered how this program can be strengthened through the first-hand stories of participants involved in the music, theatre, dance, and technical production opportunities at RIT. Using those findings, recommendations are presented for other institutions seeking to implement a similar model for STEAM education while resolving certain tensions between STEM and STEAM to potentially come closer to finding a solid balance between the two. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Resilience plays a pivotal role in shaping the academic accomplishments, psychological well-being, and future prospects of high school students. Despite its significance, there is a notable dearth of studies examining the current state and determinants of resilience among high school students in China. Methods: This research addresses this gap by assessing and exploring levels of resilience and their interconnections across four key domains--individual, family, school, and community--among Chinese high school students. The study also investigates variations in resilience based on factors such as gender, geographical location, and grade levels. A total of 667 high school students participated in the study, responding to four resilience scales. Results: Chinese high school students exhibited generally low levels of resilience, with family resilience ranking the highest and community resilience the lowest. The study revealed that resilience is positively influenced by resilience levels in school, family, and community settings. Consequently, strategies aimed at fortifying resilience should prioritize interventions in familial, educational, and communal environments. Discussion: Moreover, the research findings indicate noteworthy disparities in resilience among high school students based on gender, urban-rural divide, and grade levels. Female, urban, and lower-grade students displayed higher resilience compared to their male, rural, and higher-grade counterparts. This highlights the importance of focusing on resilience-building measures tailored to male, rural, and higher-grade high school students, given their increased likelihood of facing significant challenges and stressors in both academic and personal spheres. Conclusion: This study contributes to the broader understanding of resilience by investigating the correlations between individual, family, school, and community resilience among Chinese high school students. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to enhance resilience, particularly in specific demographic groups, thereby advancing the efficacy of resilience-building techniques in high school settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the association of multiple mental health measures with involuntary delayed retirement (IDR) in working older adults (≥ 65 years) in the USA. Data were derived from the Health and Retirement Study, focusing on two combined waves of working older adults in 2010 and 2012. IDR was measured as the desire to stop working but the inability to do so due to financial constraints. In addition, mental health outcomes included depression, anxiety, anger-in, and anger-out. Using Stata 16.0, primary analyses were conducted for descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression. The odds ratios were reported with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Older adults who reported IDR were more likely to have depression (OR = 3.20, CI = 1.03–9.88), anxiety (OR = 2.12, CI = 1.00–5.18), and anger-in (OR = 1.71, CI = 1.12–2.60) compared to those who did not report IDR. However, IDR was not significantly associated with anger-out in older adults who worked past the traditional retirement age. The findings suggest that IDR is likely to act as a stressor and affects the mental health of older adults aged 65 and more. Policymakers should pay more attention to helping older adults maintain positive mental health even if they are required to work past retirement age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Thyroid hormones play an essential role in hippocampal development, a key structure in psychosis. However, the role of these hormones in first-episode psychosis (FEP) has received limited attention. It has been hypothesized that thyroid hormones could cause morphological modifications in the hippocampal structure through the upregulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). In this study, we primarily aimed to determine the relationship between thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels, peripheral BDNF levels, and hippocampal volume in antipsychotic-naïve FEP patients. We also aimed to determine whether TSH levels were associated with clinical symptomatology. Materials and methods: A total of 50 antipsychotic-naïve FEP patients were included in the study. At baseline, we collected fasting blood samples and registered sociodemographic and clinical variables (substance use, DUP, PANSS, GAF, and CDSS). Structural T1 MRI was performed at baseline to quantify brain volumes. No control group was used for this study. Results: Of the 50 patients, more than one-third (36%) presented alterations in TSH levels, mainly elevated levels (32% of patients). The TSH levels were inversely correlated with both peripheral BDNF and hippocampal volume. On the multivariate analysis, the model that best predicted the relative hippocampal volume was a single variable model (TSH levels). No significant association was observed between TSH levels and clinical symptomatology. Discussion: These results suggest that thyroid hormones could have a neuroprotective effect on the hippocampus in FEP patients, possibly through their effect by increasing BDNF concentrations, which could attenuate brain injury and neuroinflammation. Nevertheless, thyroid hormones could also affect hippocampal volume through other pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sepsis induces neuroinflammation, BBB disruption, cerebral hypoxia, neuronal mitochondrial dysfunction, and cell death causing sepsis‐associated encephalopathy (SAE). These pathological consequences lead to short‐ and long‐term neurobehavioural deficits. Till now there is no specific treatment that directly improves SAE and its associated behavioural impairments. In this review, we discuss the underlying mechanisms of sepsis‐induced brain injury with a focus on the latest progress regarding neuroprotective effects of SIRT1 (silent mating type information regulation‐2 homologue‐1). SIRT1 is an NAD+‐dependent class III protein deacetylase. It is able to modulate multiple downstream signals (including NF‐κB, HMGB, AMPK, PGC1α and FoxO), which are involved in the development of SAE by its deacetylation activity. There are multiple recent studies showing the neuroprotective effects of SIRT1 in neuroinflammation related diseases. The proposed neuroprotective action of SIRT1 is meant to bring a promising therapeutic strategy for managing SAE and ameliorating its related behavioural deficits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fibromyalgia, a common and enduring pain disorder, ranks as the second most prevalent rheumatic disease after osteoarthritis. Recent years have witnessed successful treatment using non-invasive brain stimulation. Transcranial magnetic stimulation, transcranial direct current stimulation, and electroconvulsion therapy have shown promise in treating chronic pain. This article reviews the literature concerning non-invasive stimulation for fibromyalgia treatment, its mechanisms, and establishes a scientific basis for rehabilitation, and discusses the future directions for research and development prospects of these techniques are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Performance support teams are increasingly comprised of sub-disciplines, bringing varied expertise to support an athlete or team in achieving the desired result. With more voices in the room, however, there is a need to investigate how these individuals can effectively work together collaboratively. Accordingly, the present study reviewed empirical articles that have examined interdisciplinary practice in performance sport. In total, 22 articles met the full inclusion criteria. We discuss the four key themes that emerged from the literature linked to these contexts: namely, Theoretical frameworks, Facilitative leadership and culture, Organisational and logistical structure and processes, and Personal and interpersonal qualities. To deepen the understanding in this intricate field, conducting future research such as longitudinal studies that follow team working practices over time and delve into the lived experiences of teams, as well as the perspectives of various stakeholders, would be beneficial. The terminology used to describe team working in elite sports is often ambiguous and interchangeable. To provide clarity, the following concise framing is proposed: multidisciplinary refers to a combination of several disciplines and methods; interdisciplinary denotes the connection between, among, and reciprocal collaboration; and transdisciplinary refers to going beyond, through, and across. For elite sports teams to reflect on their working practices, the following key areas should be considered: theoretical framework (programme philosophy), facilitative leadership and culture, organisational and logistical structures and processes, and personal and interpersonal qualities of the team. As the terminology around team working in elite sports remains ambiguous, future research should strive to uncover the lived experiences and practices of these teams. With scarce literature on the practice of interdisciplinarity within this field, other industries' models could provide a stepping stone for investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is implicated in the etiology and treatment response in major depressive disorder (MDD). However, peripheral BDNF concentrations have not been compared across different MDD stages. Bright light therapy (BLT) offers some potential in treatment-resistant depression (TRD), but its effects on BDNF levels are unknown. This study included a cross-sectional analysis of plasma BDNF concentration in females with TRD, unmedicated MDD patients, and healthy controls (HC), and measurements of longitudinal BLT effects on plasma BDNF levels in TRD patients. The present study included 55 drug-naïve, first-episode patients, 25 drug-free recurrent-episode MDD patients, 71 HC participants, and 54 TRD patients. Patients were rated by Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD)-17 and the Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). Patients with TRD received BLT during 4 weeks. The total HAMD-17 and MADRS scores decreased following BLT. All patient groups had lower plasma BDNF than HC, but BDNF levels did not differ between first- and recurrent-episode BDNF patients and TRD patients before or after BLT. However, responders and remitters to BLT had higher post-treatment plasma BDNF concentrations than patients who did not achieve response or remission. The changes in plasma BDNF levels may be candidates for biomarkers of treatment response to BLT in TRD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This study seeks to offer a contribution to the method of subtyping major depressed patients by exploring the possible relationships between circulating brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), different peripheral inflammatory/metabolic markers in the blood and clinical characteristics. Thirty-nine patients, thoroughly diagnosed according to the DSM-5 criteria, underwent a comprehensive set of evaluations encompassing structured interviews, rating scales and a panel of blood tests. Correlation and comparison analyses were carried out by means of non-parametric statistical tests. Concurrently, a principal component analysis was performed to explain biochemical variance. The findings of our research unveiled that leukocyte counts, their ratios and other inflammatory parameters are positively correlated with depression scores. Moreover, we found variations within the BDNF pools of depressed patients. Specifically, higher levels of platelet-poor plasma BDNF (PPP-BDNF) were correlated with augmented inflammatory markers in patients showing specific episode characteristics, whereas reduced platelet BDNF (PLT-BDNF) provided a better indication of the changes that were linked to a diagnosis of long-term depression. Our findings suggest that PPP-BDNF and PLT-BDNF might differentiate depression conditions. They also imply usefulness in appraising peripheral biomarker profiles in patients for a deeper characterization of major depressive episodes. At the same time, it is plausible that they might constitute novel avenues for developing more tailored therapeutic strategies for patients with MDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to present and reflect on the lessons learnt from practice with an individual case professional dancer who sought comprehensive psychological support as a result of a sustained trauma-injury ruptured Achilles tendon during a live performance. A single case study is represented as part of reflections and lessons learnt throughout the period of consultation and psychological support offered. The mode of service delivery, methods, and final evaluation, with final reflections are presented. A total of 12 sessions delivered fortnightly were offered lasting 60 minutes each session. Rehabilitation postsurgery included physio, strength and conditioning, Pilates, nutrition, psychological support as part of a comprehensive package. The PANAS questionnaire (Watson et al, 1988) which was administered at baseline, mid-point and post-sessions was used as an evaluation tool. Through reflective practice, three main themes emerged as acquired skills through the psychological interventions offered: 1) self-confidence and self-esteem, 2) a renewed sense of belonging, and 3) sense of autonomy. A dancers' centred approach in providing psychological support for a comprehensive rehabilitation program was used, where transdisciplinary interlinked approaches benefited the recovery from 'curtain down' to 'curtain up'. Reflections highlight the importance of positive psychological models of practice, the Rogerian foundations of authenticity, non-judgemental and guiding principles of recovery through empathy, and the clinician's positionality right from the start of the support offered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: First‐year students encounter substantial stress when they enter university. Their mental health often depends upon how well they cope with the stress of university life. Salivary components are well known to reflect the stress status of the students; however, the relationship between salivary components and coping styles remains unknown. Methods: In this study, 54 healthy first‐year students voluntarily completed a questionnaire that addressed three different coping styles: problem‐focused, emotion‐focused, and escape‐focused. We simultaneously collected salivary samples from students in the classroom and measured concentrations of salivary cortisol and α‐amylase by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays over 4 months. Results: We examined the relationship between coping style and salivary cortisol concentrations and found that the mean salivary cortisol concentrations were significantly lower in students who had a higher Likert‐type score for the problem‐focused coping style than in students who had a lower score. The difference in the mean cortisol concentrations between the two groups increased over time. However, we observed no apparent correlation between α‐amylase concentrations and Likert scores of the three coping styles. Conclusion: These results suggest that salivary cortisol concentrations might reflect the stress‐coping status, particularly involving the problem‐focused coping style. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this review was to explore the relevant neurobiology and the association between peripheral levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and acute and short to long-term exercise regimes, as well as its relation to depression and antidepressant treatment. A 20-year literature search was conducted. The screening process resulted in 100 manuscripts. Antidepressants as well as acute exercise, particularly high-intensity, elevates BDNF in healthy humans and clinical populations, as evidenced from aerobic and resistance-based studies. Although exercise is increasingly recognised in the management of depression, acute and short-term exercise studies have failed to establish a relationship between the severity of depression and changes in peripheral BDNF. The latter rapidly returns to baseline, possibly indicating a quick re-uptake by the brain, aiding its neuroplasticity functions. The timescale of administration needed for the antidepressants to stimulate biochemical changes is longer than similar increases with acute exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The image of dancing into the spotlight alludes to glamor, which clouds the artists' back-breaking work and practice. Meanwhile, there is scant research on the lived experiences of professional female dancers. To address this gap, this study explores the lived experiences of eight Vietnamese professional female dancers who are married with children. The findings reveal their enormous challenges in their professional, social, and personal lives to stay in the profession and navigate their roles as partners and mothers in their families. Their stories were unmasked in the hope to foster a deeper understanding between dancing careers and the public, and provide insights into the female dancers' challenges in keeping the dance body in shape after pregnancy and childbirth, which is hardly featured in dance scholarship in Vietnam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anorexia nervosa is a disorder associated with serious adverse health outcomes, for which there is currently considerable treatment ineffectiveness. Characterised by restrictive eating behaviours, distorted body image perceptions and excessive physical activity, there is growing recognition anorexia nervosa is associated with underlying dysfunction in excitatory and inhibitory neurometabolite metabolism and signalling. This narrative review critically explores the role of N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor-mediated excitatory and inhibitory neurometabolite dysfunction in anorexia nervosa and its associated biomarkers. The existing magnetic resonance spectroscopy literature in anorexia nervosa is reviewed and we outline the brain region-specific neurometabolite changes that have been reported and their connection to anorexia nervosa psychopathology. Considering the proposed role of dysfunctional neurotransmission in anorexia nervosa, the potential utility of zinc supplementation and sub-anaesthetic doses of ketamine in normalising this is discussed with reference to previous research in anorexia nervosa and other neuropsychiatric conditions. The rationale for future research to investigate the combined use of low-dose ketamine and zinc supplementation to potentially extend the therapeutic benefits in anorexia nervosa is subsequently explored and promising biological markers for assessing and potentially predicting treatment response are outlined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]