Acute Inflammatory Response to Psychological Stress
Conditions
Brief summary
The investigators plan to conduct a crossover experimental trial examining physiological responses to a socio-evaluative speech task under laboratory conditions. Participants will attend two laboratory sessions. At one session participants will take part in a brief laboratory stress task and at the other participants will rest for the same period. Measures of cardiovascular response will be assessed at both sessions. In addition, blood will be drawn at multiple time points across a 125 minute period to assess changes in circulating levels of cortisol, catecholamines, markers of inflammation and cell free mitochondrial DNA in response to the task. The investigators expect that the stress task will induce a specific increase in ccf-mtDNA, which will statistically mediate subsequent peak circulating Interleukin-6 and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α levels. In secondary analyses, the investigators will examine whether stress-induced increases in circulating cortisol, epinephrine, and norepinephrine levels correlate with increases in ccf-mtDNA. These studies will establish the kinetics and magnitude of psychological stress-induced ccf-mtDNA release, the association with early stress mediators, and whether ccf-mtDNA mediates the inflammatory response to acute stress in humans.
Detailed description
The proposed study will examine physiologic responses to acute psychological challenge in the laboratory among healthy adults. It is widely accepted that there is an increase in circulating markers of inflammation following a single bout of laboratory stress. This increase in systemic inflammation is believed to contribute to the damaging health effect of psychological stress. However, to date, the biological mechanisms by which psychological stress is transduced into inflammation are unclear. The investigators' preliminary evidence suggests that mitochondrion may play a role, with stress-induced increases in circulating levels of mitochondria- derived signaling molecules that are known to modulate immune cell function and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. To test this possibility, the investigators plan to conduct a crossover experimental trial examining physiological responses to an evaluative speech task under laboratory conditions. The investigators have previously used this task to induce physiological arousal. The investigators plan to recruit 60 non-smoking volunteers (50% female, aged 20-50 years) and test these participants on two occasions separated by at least a month. On one occasion the participants will be exposed to the speech task. On the other occasion, the participants will rest quietly for the same period. Conditions will be counterbalanced. At both visits cardiovascular responses (heart rate, blood pressure, and heart rate variability) will be assessed as measures of autonomic activation before, during and after the task period. Participants will also have an intravenous catheter inserted and blood drawn at ten time points over the two hour testing period on each occasion. Blood samples will be sent to laboratories at the University of Pittsburgh and at Columbia University for the assessment of mitochondria-derived signalling molecules, inflammatory markers, and cortisol levels.
Interventions
BEHAVIORALSocio-evaluative speech task
5-minute speech task designed to induce physiological arousal in a laboratory setting.
BEHAVIORALControl, Quiet Rest
5-minute quiet rest period.
Sponsors
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
University of Pittsburgh
Study design
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Intervention model
CROSSOVER
Primary purpose
BASIC_SCIENCE
Masking
SINGLE (Outcomes Assessor)
Masking description
Samples of plasma and serum will be identified by participant identification number only. Technicians assessing levels of biological measures in these samples will be blind to condition.
Intervention model description
The investigators propose a crossover experimental trial examining physiological responses to a socio-evaluative speech task under laboratory conditions. Participants will be tested on two occasions separated by at least 1 month. On one occasion, participants will be exposed to the speech task. On the other occasion, participants will rest quietly for the same period of time with identical assessment in the absence of the stressor. Conditions will be counterbalanced in randomized starting order across subjects.
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
20 Years to 50 Years
Healthy volunteers
Yes
Inclusion criteria
* Generally healthy * Non-smokers/illicit drug users * Blood pressure below 140/90 * Weight \> 110 lbs * BMI \< 30 * Fluent in English * Women -- regular menstrual cycles over the past 12 months (defined as 21- 35 days in length) * Able and willing to give informed consent * Willing to abstain from alcohol and vigorous exercise for 24 hours, from food and drinks (other than water) for 3 hours and from non-prescription medications (other than oral contraception) for 2 days before testing. * Willing to attend two laboratory stress testing sessions, give blood though an intravenous catheter, undergo medical evaluation and complete psychosocial questionnaires.
Exclusion criteria
* Reported history of chronic systemic immune, metabolic or mitochondrial diseases, or chronic diseases that influence the central nervous, autonomic nervous or neuroendocrine systems, e.g., autoimmune disease, chronic infections, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic kidney or liver disease, cancer treatment. * Reported psychiatric history of schizophrenia or other psychotic illness, or mood disorder. * Resting blood pressure \> 140/90 mmHg at baseline testing. * Weight \< 110 lbs * BMI equal to or greater than 30 * Report currently taking glucocorticoid, anti-inflammatory, anti-retroviral, immunosuppressant, insulin, antiarrhythmic, antihypertensive, oral hypoglycemic, antidepressant, benzodiazepine or prescription weight loss medications or other medications known to influence the immune, autonomic or neuroendocrine systems. * For women - Post-menopausal or irregular menstrual cycles over the past 12 months. Report current pregnancy or lactation. * Current smokers (defined as having smoked a cigarette in the previous 3 months). * Current illicit drug use (defined as reported use of illicit drugs such as marijuana, cocaine or heroin in the previous 3 months). * Not fluent in English (have used English in everyday speaking and reading for at least 10 years) * Unable or unwilling to give informed consent * Unwilling to abstain from alcohol and vigorous exercise for 24 hours, from food and drinks (other than water) for 3 hours and from non-prescription medications (other than oral contraception) for 2 days prior to testing.
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Cell-free Mitochondrial DNA | 5 minutes before task, and 5, 10, 20, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90 and 120 minutes after the task. | Serum levels of mitochondrial DNA assessed from blood samples |
| Interleukin-6 | 5 minutes before to 5, 10, 20, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 120 post-task periods | Plasma levels of interleukin-6 |
| Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha | 5 minutes before to 5, 10, 20, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 120 post-task periods | Plasma levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha |
Secondary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Cortisol | 5 minutes before to 10, 20, 30, 45, 60 minutes post-task periods | Circulating levels of cortisol assessed by ELISA |
| Epinephrine | 5 minutes before to 5, 10, 20, 30, & 60 minutes post-task periods | Levels of epinephrine in plasma |
| Norepinephrine | 5 minutes before to 5, 10, 20, 30, & 60 minutes post-task periods | Levels of norepinephrine in plasma |
| Heart Rate Variability | Pre-task, task, and 1-5 and 6-10 minutes post task | Interbeat intervals of heart rate assessed by 3-lead EKG. Measures were taken continuously from 5 minutes before the task to 10 minutes after the task. Rsults were then averaged across 4 periods: 5 minutes prior to the task, the 5-minute task period, and 5-, and 10-minutes post task |
| Fatigue | 2 minutes before and 2, 60, and 120 minutes post-task periods | Momentary assessment of fatigue, measured as score on the fatigue subscale on the brief Profile of Mood States questionnaire. Scores range from 0 - 20, with higher scores reflecting more fatigue. |
| Heart Rate | last 5 minutes of baseline, 5-min task-period, first two 5 minutes post-task. | Continuous measurement of heart rate was averaged across 4 periods: last 5 minutes of baseline, 5-min task-period, first two 5 minutes post-task. |
| Anxious Mood | 2 minutes before and 2-, 60- and 120-minutes post-task periods | Momentary assessment of anxious mood, measured as score on the anxiety subscale on the brief Profile of Mood States questionnaire in response to the task periods. Scores range from 0 - 16, with higher scores reflecting more anxious mood. |
| Vigor | 2 minutes before and 2-, 60-, and 120-minutes post-task periods | Momentary assessment of vigor, measured as score on the vigor subscale on the brief Profile of Mood States questionnaire in response to the task periods. Scores range from 0 - 12, with higher scores reflecting more vigor. |
| Depressed Mood | 2 minutes before and 2-, 60- and 120-minutes post-task periods | Momentary assessment of depressed mood, measured as score on the depression subscale on the brief Profile of Mood States questionnaire in response to the task periods. Scores range from 0 - 12, with higher scores reflecting more depressed mood. |
| Wellbeing | 2 minutes before and 2-, 60- and 120-minutes post-task periods | Momentary assessment of wellbeing, measured as score on the wellbeing subscale on the brief Profile of Mood States questionnaire in response to the task periods. Scores range from 0 - 12, with higher scores reflecting more wellbeing. |
| Calm Mood | 2 minutes before and 2-, 60-, and 120-minutes post-task periods | Momentary assessment of calm mood, measured as score on the calm subscale on the brief Profile of Mood States questionnaire in response to the task periods. Scores range from 0 - 16, with higher scores reflecting more calm mood. |
| Anger | 2 minutes before and 2-, 60-, and 120-minutes post-task periods | Momentary assessment of anger, measured as score on the anger subscale on the brief Profile of Mood States questionnaire in response to the task periods. Scores range from 0 - 12, with higher scores reflecting more anger. |
| Systolic Blood Pressure | 5 min pre-task and 5, 10, 20, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 120 | Blood pressure was assessed twice on 10 occasions across the protocol. The two readings on each occasion were averaged. |
| Diastolic Blood Pressure | 5 min pre-task and 5, 10, 20, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 120 post task onset | Diastolic blood pressure was assessed two times on 10 occasions across the protocol. On each occasion, the two measures were averaged. |
Countries
United States
Participant flow
Recruitment details
Participants were recruited into this study between 7/23/2020 and 12/17/2021. Healthy volunteers were recruited from advertisements places around campus and through Pitt+Me, a registry of individuals interested in participating in research taking place at the University of Pittsburgh.
Pre-assignment details
Participants were scheduled for a screening telephone call to determine eligibility. Eligible participants were rescreened at 1st study visit and excluded if they did not meet eligibility criteria. We also excluded individuals on whom we could not insert a functioning intravenous catheter at the first study visit.
Participants by arm
| Arm | Count |
|---|---|
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress, Then Control Participants will attend two laboratory sessions. At the first session, participants will complete a socio-evaluative speech task, which is a widely used, highly effective way to investigate stress responses in a laboratory setting. Participants will prepare and deliver a brief, 3-minute speech defending themselves against an alleged transgression (e.g., running a stop sign). The speech will be delivered in front of a video camera, a mirror and an audience (the interviewer and another staff member). Participants will be told that their non-verbal behaviors are being evaluated. At the second session, participants will rest quietly for the same period as the speech task, in the absence of the stressor.
Socio-evaluative speech task: 5-minute speech task designed to induce physiological arousal in a laboratory setting.
Control, Quiet Rest: 5-minute quiet rest period. | 36 |
| Control, Then Socio-Evaluative Speech Stress Participants will attend two laboratory sessions. At the first session, participants will rest quietly for 5 minutes. At the second session, participants will complete a socio-evaluative speech task, which is a widely used, highly effective way to investigate stress responses in a laboratory setting. Participants will prepare and deliver a brief, 3-minute speech defending themselves against an alleged transgression (e.g., running a stop sign). The speech will be delivered in front of a video camera, a mirror and an audience (the interviewer and another staff member). Participants will be told that their non-verbal behaviors are being evaluated.
Socio-evaluative speech task: 5-minute speech task designed to induce physiological arousal in a laboratory setting.
Control, Quiet Rest: 5-minute quiet rest period. | 36 |
| Total | 72 |
Withdrawals & dropouts
| Period | Reason | FG000 | FG001 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Session 2 | Lost to Follow-up | 3 | 1 |
| Session 2 | Unable to insert IV - participant elected to withdraw | 8 | 8 |
Baseline characteristics
| Characteristic | Control, Then Socio-Evaluative Speech Stress | Total | Socio-evaluative Speech Stress, Then Control |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age, Continuous | 31 Years STANDARD_DEVIATION 8 | 31 Years STANDARD_DEVIATION 9 | 32 Years STANDARD_DEVIATION 9 |
| Body Mass Index | 22.61 kg/M^2 STANDARD_DEVIATION 2.68 | 23.46 kg/M^2 STANDARD_DEVIATION 3.64 | 24.30 kg/M^2 STANDARD_DEVIATION 4.27 |
| Diastolic Blood Pressure | 65.85 mmHg STANDARD_DEVIATION 6.73 | 67.42 mmHg STANDARD_DEVIATION 6.75 | 68.92 mmHg STANDARD_DEVIATION 6.58 |
| Race (NIH/OMB) American Indian or Alaska Native | 0 Participants | 0 Participants | 0 Participants |
| Race (NIH/OMB) Asian | 4 Participants | 11 Participants | 7 Participants |
| Race (NIH/OMB) Black or African American | 3 Participants | 4 Participants | 1 Participants |
| Race (NIH/OMB) More than one race | 1 Participants | 4 Participants | 3 Participants |
| Race (NIH/OMB) Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander | 0 Participants | 0 Participants | 0 Participants |
| Race (NIH/OMB) Unknown or Not Reported | 1 Participants | 1 Participants | 0 Participants |
| Race (NIH/OMB) White | 27 Participants | 52 Participants | 25 Participants |
| Region of Enrollment United States | 36 participants | 72 participants | 36 participants |
| Sex: Female, Male Female | 19 Participants | 34 Participants | 15 Participants |
| Sex: Female, Male Male | 17 Participants | 38 Participants | 21 Participants |
| Systolic Blood Pressure | 108.06 mmHg STANDARD_DEVIATION 10.53 | 110.78 mmHg STANDARD_DEVIATION 9.42 | 113.05 mmHg STANDARD_DEVIATION 7.82 |
Adverse events
| Event type | EG000 affected / at risk | EG001 affected / at risk |
|---|---|---|
| deaths Total, all-cause mortality | 0 / 63 | 0 / 61 |
| other Total, other adverse events | 0 / 63 | 0 / 61 |
| serious Total, serious adverse events | 0 / 63 | 0 / 61 |
Outcome results
Primary
Cell-free Mitochondrial DNA
Serum levels of mitochondrial DNA assessed from blood samples
Time frame: 5 minutes before task, and 5, 10, 20, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90 and 120 minutes after the task.
| Arm | Measure | Group | Value (MEAN) | Dispersion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Cell-free Mitochondrial DNA | 5 min pre-task | 165.79 Copies per uL | Standard Deviation 143.01 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Cell-free Mitochondrial DNA | 5 min | 175.45 Copies per uL | Standard Deviation 144.03 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Cell-free Mitochondrial DNA | 10 min | 414.74 Copies per uL | Standard Deviation 1942.78 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Cell-free Mitochondrial DNA | 20 min | 153.37 Copies per uL | Standard Deviation 144.03 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Cell-free Mitochondrial DNA | 30 min | 151.50 Copies per uL | Standard Deviation 124.64 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Cell-free Mitochondrial DNA | 45 min | 171.53 Copies per uL | Standard Deviation 178.85 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Cell-free Mitochondrial DNA | 60 min | 150.76 Copies per uL | Standard Deviation 93.06 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Cell-free Mitochondrial DNA | 75 min | 183.87 Copies per uL | Standard Deviation 216.89 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Cell-free Mitochondrial DNA | 90 min | 187.20 Copies per uL | Standard Deviation 202.77 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Cell-free Mitochondrial DNA | 120 min | 161.19 Copies per uL | Standard Deviation 149.77 |
| Control Session | Cell-free Mitochondrial DNA | 75 min | 255.99 Copies per uL | Standard Deviation 549.68 |
| Control Session | Cell-free Mitochondrial DNA | 5 min pre-task | 405.56 Copies per uL | Standard Deviation 1218.33 |
| Control Session | Cell-free Mitochondrial DNA | 45 min | 172.03 Copies per uL | Standard Deviation 155.38 |
| Control Session | Cell-free Mitochondrial DNA | 5 min | 164.45 Copies per uL | Standard Deviation 133.03 |
| Control Session | Cell-free Mitochondrial DNA | 120 min | 232.64 Copies per uL | Standard Deviation 279.89 |
| Control Session | Cell-free Mitochondrial DNA | 10 min | 296.62 Copies per uL | Standard Deviation 629.78 |
| Control Session | Cell-free Mitochondrial DNA | 60 min | 215.58 Copies per uL | Standard Deviation 437.87 |
| Control Session | Cell-free Mitochondrial DNA | 20 min | 213.27 Copies per uL | Standard Deviation 511.28 |
| Control Session | Cell-free Mitochondrial DNA | 90 min | 223.99 Copies per uL | Standard Deviation 272.97 |
| Control Session | Cell-free Mitochondrial DNA | 30 min | 163.41 Copies per uL | Standard Deviation 147.62 |
Comparison: Results below present the condition (stress/control) by time interactions.p-value: 0.86Mixed Models Analysis
Primary
Interleukin-6
Plasma levels of interleukin-6
Time frame: 5 minutes before to 5, 10, 20, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 120 post-task periods
| Arm | Measure | Group | Value (MEAN) | Dispersion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Interleukin-6 | 30 min | 2.01 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 1.44 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Interleukin-6 | 5 mins pre-task | 1.52 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 1.29 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Interleukin-6 | 5 min | 1.76 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 1.31 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Interleukin-6 | 10 min | 1.61 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 1.24 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Interleukin-6 | 20 min | 2.05 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 1.49 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Interleukin-6 | 45 min | 2.30 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 1.7 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Interleukin-6 | 60 min | 2.50 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 1.76 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Interleukin-6 | 75 min | 3.28 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 3.61 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Interleukin-6 | 90 min | 3.80 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 3.78 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Interleukin-6 | 120 min | 4.50 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 3.92 |
| Control Session | Interleukin-6 | 75 min | 3.06 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 2.84 |
| Control Session | Interleukin-6 | 45 min | 2.15 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 1.32 |
| Control Session | Interleukin-6 | 5 mins pre-task | 1.40 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 0.99 |
| Control Session | Interleukin-6 | 120 min | 4.72 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 5.31 |
| Control Session | Interleukin-6 | 5 min | 1.58 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 0.94 |
| Control Session | Interleukin-6 | 60 min | 2.27 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 1.34 |
| Control Session | Interleukin-6 | 10 min | 1.52 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 0.94 |
| Control Session | Interleukin-6 | 90 min | 2.91 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 1.97 |
| Control Session | Interleukin-6 | 20 min | 1.78 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 1.01 |
| Control Session | Interleukin-6 | 30 min | 1.85 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 1.29 |
Comparison: Results present the condition (stress/control) by time interactions.p-value: 0.74Mixed Models Analysis
Primary
Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha
Plasma levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha
Time frame: 5 minutes before to 5, 10, 20, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 120 post-task periods
| Arm | Measure | Group | Value (MEAN) | Dispersion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha | 10 min | 6.59 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 1.84 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha | 5 min | 6.62 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 1.9 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha | 60 min | 6.41 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 1.65 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha | 20 min | 6.70 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 1.72 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha | 75 min | 6.58 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 1.68 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha | 5 min pre-task | 5.92 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 2.21 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha | 90 min | 3.78 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 6.68 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha | 30 min | 6.45 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 1.82 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha | 120 min | 3.92 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 6.43 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha | 45 min | 6.61 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 1.76 |
| Control Session | Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha | 120 min | 6.66 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 2.62 |
| Control Session | Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha | 5 min pre-task | 6.10 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 2.21 |
| Control Session | Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha | 5 min | 6.81 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 2.79 |
| Control Session | Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha | 10 min | 6.28 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 1.92 |
| Control Session | Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha | 20 min | 6.79 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 2.76 |
| Control Session | Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha | 30 min | 6.35 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 1.89 |
| Control Session | Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha | 45 min | 6.74 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 2.63 |
| Control Session | Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha | 60 min | 6.52 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 2.51 |
| Control Session | Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha | 75 min | 6.79 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 2.64 |
| Control Session | Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha | 90 min | 6.75 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 1.74 |
Comparison: Results below present the condition (stress/control) by time interactions.p-value: 0.52Mixed Models Analysis
Secondary
Anger
Momentary assessment of anger, measured as score on the anger subscale on the brief Profile of Mood States questionnaire in response to the task periods. Scores range from 0 - 12, with higher scores reflecting more anger.
Time frame: 2 minutes before and 2-, 60-, and 120-minutes post-task periods
| Arm | Measure | Group | Value (MEAN) | Dispersion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Anger | Pre-task | 0.30 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 1.03 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Anger | 2 min post-task | 0.70 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 1.57 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Anger | 60 min post task onset | 0.49 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 1.39 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Anger | 120 min post task onset | 0.45 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 1.51 |
| Control Session | Anger | 120 min post task onset | 0.14 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 0.59 |
| Control Session | Anger | Pre-task | 0.08 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 0.42 |
| Control Session | Anger | 60 min post task onset | 0.16 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 0.72 |
| Control Session | Anger | 2 min post-task | 0.20 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 1.05 |
Comparison: Results below present the condition (stress/control) by time interactions.p-value: 0.83Mixed Models Analysis
Secondary
Anxious Mood
Momentary assessment of anxious mood, measured as score on the anxiety subscale on the brief Profile of Mood States questionnaire in response to the task periods. Scores range from 0 - 16, with higher scores reflecting more anxious mood.
Time frame: 2 minutes before and 2-, 60- and 120-minutes post-task periods
| Arm | Measure | Group | Value (MEAN) | Dispersion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Anxious Mood | 2 min pre-task | 1.44 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 2.13 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Anxious Mood | 2 min post-task | 3.21 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 2.78 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Anxious Mood | 60 min post task onset | 1.56 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 2.21 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Anxious Mood | 120 min post task onset | 1.29 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 2.18 |
| Control Session | Anxious Mood | 120 min post task onset | 1.02 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 2.46 |
| Control Session | Anxious Mood | 2 min pre-task | 1.35 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 1.97 |
| Control Session | Anxious Mood | 60 min post task onset | 1.24 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 2.3 |
| Control Session | Anxious Mood | 2 min post-task | 0.93 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 1.97 |
Comparison: Results below present the condition (stress/control) by time interactions.p-value: 0.03Mixed Models Analysis
Secondary
Calm Mood
Momentary assessment of calm mood, measured as score on the calm subscale on the brief Profile of Mood States questionnaire in response to the task periods. Scores range from 0 - 16, with higher scores reflecting more calm mood.
Time frame: 2 minutes before and 2-, 60-, and 120-minutes post-task periods
| Arm | Measure | Group | Value (MEAN) | Dispersion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Calm Mood | 2 min pre-task | 9.09 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 2.85 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Calm Mood | 2 min post-task | 5.87 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 2.84 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Calm Mood | 60- min post task onset | 7.59 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 3.4 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Calm Mood | 120 min post task onset | 7.68 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 3.18 |
| Control Session | Calm Mood | 120 min post task onset | 7.63 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 3.5 |
| Control Session | Calm Mood | 2 min pre-task | 9.38 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 2.9 |
| Control Session | Calm Mood | 60- min post task onset | 8.29 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 2.91 |
| Control Session | Calm Mood | 2 min post-task | 8.83 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 3.39 |
Comparison: Results below present the condition (stress/control) by time interactions.p-value: 0.002Mixed Models Analysis
Secondary
Cortisol
Circulating levels of cortisol assessed by ELISA
Time frame: 5 minutes before to 10, 20, 30, 45, 60 minutes post-task periods
| Arm | Measure | Group | Value (MEAN) | Dispersion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Cortisol | 5 min pre-task | 1.50 ug/dL | Standard Deviation 0.72 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Cortisol | 10 min post task onset | 1.46 ug/dL | Standard Deviation 0.76 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Cortisol | 20 min post task onset | 1.57 ug/dL | Standard Deviation 0.86 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Cortisol | 30 min post task onset | 1.49 ug/dL | Standard Deviation 0.64 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Cortisol | 45 min post task onset | 1.43 ug/dL | Standard Deviation 0.62 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Cortisol | 60 min post task onset | 1.35 ug/dL | Standard Deviation 0.72 |
| Control Session | Cortisol | 45 min post task onset | 1.24 ug/dL | Standard Deviation 0.66 |
| Control Session | Cortisol | 5 min pre-task | 1.48 ug/dL | Standard Deviation 0.76 |
| Control Session | Cortisol | 30 min post task onset | 1.24 ug/dL | Standard Deviation 0.64 |
| Control Session | Cortisol | 10 min post task onset | 1.30 ug/dL | Standard Deviation 0.62 |
| Control Session | Cortisol | 60 min post task onset | 1.18 ug/dL | Standard Deviation 0.6 |
| Control Session | Cortisol | 20 min post task onset | 1.30 ug/dL | Standard Deviation 0.63 |
Comparison: Results below present the condition (stress/control) by time interactions.p-value: 0.005Mixed Models Analysis
Secondary
Depressed Mood
Momentary assessment of depressed mood, measured as score on the depression subscale on the brief Profile of Mood States questionnaire in response to the task periods. Scores range from 0 - 12, with higher scores reflecting more depressed mood.
Time frame: 2 minutes before and 2-, 60- and 120-minutes post-task periods
| Arm | Measure | Group | Value (MEAN) | Dispersion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Depressed Mood | 2 min pre-task | 0.32 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 0.91 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Depressed Mood | 2 min post-task | 0.46 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 1.2 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Depressed Mood | 60 min post task onset | 0.64 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 1.34 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Depressed Mood | 120 min post task onset | 0.41 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 1.12 |
| Control Session | Depressed Mood | 120 min post task onset | 0.25 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 0.88 |
| Control Session | Depressed Mood | 2 min pre-task | 0.23 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 0.79 |
| Control Session | Depressed Mood | 60 min post task onset | 0.29 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 0.94 |
| Control Session | Depressed Mood | 2 min post-task | 0.27 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 0.94 |
Comparison: Results below present the condition (stress/control) by time interactions.p-value: 0.51Mixed Models Analysis
Secondary
Diastolic Blood Pressure
Diastolic blood pressure was assessed two times on 10 occasions across the protocol. On each occasion, the two measures were averaged.
Time frame: 5 min pre-task and 5, 10, 20, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 120 post task onset
| Arm | Measure | Group | Value (MEAN) | Dispersion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Diastolic Blood Pressure | 10 min post task onset | 72.65 mmHg | Standard Deviation 12.58 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Diastolic Blood Pressure | 45 min post task onset | 79.03 mmHg | Standard Deviation 14.32 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Diastolic Blood Pressure | 5 min post-task onset | 72.00 mmHg | Standard Deviation 11.71 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Diastolic Blood Pressure | 60 min post task onset | 71.80 mmHg | Standard Deviation 13.54 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Diastolic Blood Pressure | 20 min post task onset | 79.58 mmHg | Standard Deviation 18.09 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Diastolic Blood Pressure | 75 min post task onset | 68.02 mmHg | Standard Deviation 12.45 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Diastolic Blood Pressure | 5 min pre-task | 67.69 mmHg | Standard Deviation 9.47 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Diastolic Blood Pressure | 90 min post task onset | 66.37 mmHg | Standard Deviation 10.58 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Diastolic Blood Pressure | 120 min post task onset | 66.30 mmHg | Standard Deviation 12.59 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Diastolic Blood Pressure | 30 min post task onset | 81.57 mmHg | Standard Deviation 16.62 |
| Control Session | Diastolic Blood Pressure | 120 min post task onset | 64.10 mmHg | Standard Deviation 12.25 |
| Control Session | Diastolic Blood Pressure | 5 min pre-task | 65.74 mmHg | Standard Deviation 10.18 |
| Control Session | Diastolic Blood Pressure | 5 min post-task onset | 66.02 mmHg | Standard Deviation 9.46 |
| Control Session | Diastolic Blood Pressure | 10 min post task onset | 65.17 mmHg | Standard Deviation 9.95 |
| Control Session | Diastolic Blood Pressure | 20 min post task onset | 65.27 mmHg | Standard Deviation 10.43 |
| Control Session | Diastolic Blood Pressure | 30 min post task onset | 66.42 mmHg | Standard Deviation 10.15 |
| Control Session | Diastolic Blood Pressure | 45 min post task onset | 65.71 mmHg | Standard Deviation 10.12 |
| Control Session | Diastolic Blood Pressure | 60 min post task onset | 66.17 mmHg | Standard Deviation 10.59 |
| Control Session | Diastolic Blood Pressure | 75 min post task onset | 65.86 mmHg | Standard Deviation 12.07 |
| Control Session | Diastolic Blood Pressure | 90 min post task onset | 64.34 mmHg | Standard Deviation 10.12 |
Comparison: Results-interaction between time\^2 and conditionp-value: <0.001Mixed Models Analysis
Secondary
Epinephrine
Levels of epinephrine in plasma
Time frame: 5 minutes before to 5, 10, 20, 30, & 60 minutes post-task periods
| Arm | Measure | Group | Value (MEAN) | Dispersion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Epinephrine | 5 min pre-task | 50.56 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 20.09 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Epinephrine | 5 min post task onset | 54.01 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 23.87 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Epinephrine | 10 min post task onset | 49.81 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 18.69 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Epinephrine | 20 min post task onset | 47.95 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 18.12 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Epinephrine | 30 min post task onset | 47.08 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 16.63 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Epinephrine | 60 min post task onset | 48.34 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 17.78 |
| Control Session | Epinephrine | 30 min post task onset | 44.26 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 18.35 |
| Control Session | Epinephrine | 5 min pre-task | 48.62 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 21.67 |
| Control Session | Epinephrine | 20 min post task onset | 45.16 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 17.38 |
| Control Session | Epinephrine | 5 min post task onset | 47.46 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 21.19 |
| Control Session | Epinephrine | 60 min post task onset | 41.64 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 16.43 |
| Control Session | Epinephrine | 10 min post task onset | 52.48 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 28.98 |
Comparison: Results below present the condition (stress/control) by time interactions.p-value: 0.92Mixed Models Analysis
Secondary
Fatigue
Momentary assessment of fatigue, measured as score on the fatigue subscale on the brief Profile of Mood States questionnaire. Scores range from 0 - 20, with higher scores reflecting more fatigue.
Time frame: 2 minutes before and 2, 60, and 120 minutes post-task periods
| Arm | Measure | Group | Value (MEAN) | Dispersion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Fatigue | Pre-task | 4.76 score on scale | Standard Deviation 4.02 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Fatigue | post-task | 2.59 score on scale | Standard Deviation 2.75 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Fatigue | 60 min post task onset | 5.79 score on scale | Standard Deviation 4.15 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Fatigue | 120 min post task onset | 5.50 score on scale | Standard Deviation 4.5 |
| Control Session | Fatigue | 120 min post task onset | 5.41 score on scale | Standard Deviation 4.36 |
| Control Session | Fatigue | Pre-task | 5.47 score on scale | Standard Deviation 3.72 |
| Control Session | Fatigue | 60 min post task onset | 6.48 score on scale | Standard Deviation 4.62 |
| Control Session | Fatigue | post-task | 5.36 score on scale | Standard Deviation 3.86 |
Comparison: Results \_condition (stress/control) by time interactions.p-value: 0.008Mixed Models Analysis
Secondary
Heart Rate
Continuous measurement of heart rate was averaged across 4 periods: last 5 minutes of baseline, 5-min task-period, first two 5 minutes post-task.
Time frame: last 5 minutes of baseline, 5-min task-period, first two 5 minutes post-task.
| Arm | Measure | Group | Value (MEAN) | Dispersion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Heart Rate | Mean of 5 min pre-task | 65.60 Beats per minute | Standard Deviation 9.57 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Heart Rate | mean of 5 min task period | 79.27 Beats per minute | Standard Deviation 14.44 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Heart Rate | mean of min 1-5 post-task | 71.37 Beats per minute | Standard Deviation 10.83 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Heart Rate | mean of min 6-10 post-task | 66.00 Beats per minute | Standard Deviation 9.46 |
| Control Session | Heart Rate | mean of min 6-10 post-task | 65.03 Beats per minute | Standard Deviation 9.24 |
| Control Session | Heart Rate | Mean of 5 min pre-task | 66.76 Beats per minute | Standard Deviation 9.53 |
| Control Session | Heart Rate | mean of min 1-5 post-task | 67.43 Beats per minute | Standard Deviation 9.2 |
| Control Session | Heart Rate | mean of 5 min task period | 66.36 Beats per minute | Standard Deviation 9.46 |
p-value: <0.001Mixed Models Analysis
Secondary
Heart Rate Variability
Interbeat intervals of heart rate assessed by 3-lead EKG. Measures were taken continuously from 5 minutes before the task to 10 minutes after the task. Rsults were then averaged across 4 periods: 5 minutes prior to the task, the 5-minute task period, and 5-, and 10-minutes post task
Time frame: Pre-task, task, and 1-5 and 6-10 minutes post task
| Arm | Measure | Group | Value (MEAN) | Dispersion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Heart Rate Variability | Mean across 5 min pre-task | 6.50 log normal milliseconds | Standard Deviation 1.05 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Heart Rate Variability | Mean across 5 min task period | 5.94 log normal milliseconds | Standard Deviation 0.96 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Heart Rate Variability | Mean across minutes 1-5 post-task | 6.18 log normal milliseconds | Standard Deviation 0.97 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Heart Rate Variability | Mean across 6-10 minutes post-task | 6.30 log normal milliseconds | Standard Deviation 0.93 |
| Control Session | Heart Rate Variability | Mean across 6-10 minutes post-task | 6.43 log normal milliseconds | Standard Deviation 0.91 |
| Control Session | Heart Rate Variability | Mean across 5 min pre-task | 6.58 log normal milliseconds | Standard Deviation 0.81 |
| Control Session | Heart Rate Variability | Mean across minutes 1-5 post-task | 6.37 log normal milliseconds | Standard Deviation 0.85 |
| Control Session | Heart Rate Variability | Mean across 5 min task period | 6.50 log normal milliseconds | Standard Deviation 0.92 |
Comparison: Results-interaction between time\^2 and conditionp-value: 0.002Mixed Models Analysis
Secondary
Norepinephrine
Levels of norepinephrine in plasma
Time frame: 5 minutes before to 5, 10, 20, 30, & 60 minutes post-task periods
| Arm | Measure | Group | Value (MEAN) | Dispersion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Norepinephrine | 5 min pre-task | 522.86 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 228.82 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Norepinephrine | 5 min post-task onset | 540.39 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 178.62 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Norepinephrine | 10 min post-task | 526.93 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 187.47 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Norepinephrine | 20 min post-task | 494.17 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 173.34 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Norepinephrine | 30 min post-task | 477.84 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 191.16 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Norepinephrine | 60 min post-task | 472.74 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 156.83 |
| Control Session | Norepinephrine | 30 min post-task | 476.14 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 155.51 |
| Control Session | Norepinephrine | 5 min pre-task | 480.48 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 175.92 |
| Control Session | Norepinephrine | 20 min post-task | 470.70 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 172.5 |
| Control Session | Norepinephrine | 5 min post-task onset | 485.44 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 157.6 |
| Control Session | Norepinephrine | 60 min post-task | 461.97 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 160.05 |
| Control Session | Norepinephrine | 10 min post-task | 484.38 pg/ml | Standard Deviation 151.81 |
Comparison: Results below present the condition (stress/control) by time interactions.p-value: 0.04Mixed Models Analysis
Secondary
Systolic Blood Pressure
Blood pressure was assessed twice on 10 occasions across the protocol. The two readings on each occasion were averaged.
Time frame: 5 min pre-task and 5, 10, 20, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 120
| Arm | Measure | Group | Value (MEAN) | Dispersion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Systolic Blood Pressure | 5 min pre-task | 111.18 mmHg | Standard Error 9.47 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Systolic Blood Pressure | 5 min post-task | 120.29 mmHg | Standard Error 11.71 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Systolic Blood Pressure | 10 min post-task | 120.02 mmHg | Standard Error 12.58 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Systolic Blood Pressure | 20 min post-task | 131.55 mmHg | Standard Error 18.09 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Systolic Blood Pressure | 30 min post-task | 135.63 mmHg | Standard Error 16.62 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Systolic Blood Pressure | 45 min post-task | 133.42 mmHg | Standard Error 14.32 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Systolic Blood Pressure | 60 min post-task | 125.43 mmHg | Standard Error 13.54 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Systolic Blood Pressure | 75 min post-task | 120.61 mmHg | Standard Error 12.45 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Systolic Blood Pressure | 90 min post-task | 117.15 mmHg | Standard Error 10.58 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Systolic Blood Pressure | 120 min post-tsk | 115.45 mmHg | Standard Error 12.59 |
| Control Session | Systolic Blood Pressure | 75 min post-task | 109.59 mmHg | Standard Error 12.07 |
| Control Session | Systolic Blood Pressure | 5 min pre-task | 109.43 mmHg | Standard Error 10.18 |
| Control Session | Systolic Blood Pressure | 45 min post-task | 109.14 mmHg | Standard Error 10.12 |
| Control Session | Systolic Blood Pressure | 5 min post-task | 110.70 mmHg | Standard Error 9.46 |
| Control Session | Systolic Blood Pressure | 120 min post-tsk | 108.32 mmHg | Standard Error 12.25 |
| Control Session | Systolic Blood Pressure | 10 min post-task | 109.38 mmHg | Standard Error 9.95 |
| Control Session | Systolic Blood Pressure | 60 min post-task | 109.46 mmHg | Standard Error 10.59 |
| Control Session | Systolic Blood Pressure | 20 min post-task | 109.23 mmHg | Standard Error 10.43 |
| Control Session | Systolic Blood Pressure | 90 min post-task | 109.29 mmHg | Standard Error 10.12 |
| Control Session | Systolic Blood Pressure | 30 min post-task | 108.98 mmHg | Standard Error 10.15 |
Comparison: Results-interaction between time2 and conditionp-value: <0.001Mixed Models Analysis
Secondary
Vigor
Momentary assessment of vigor, measured as score on the vigor subscale on the brief Profile of Mood States questionnaire in response to the task periods. Scores range from 0 - 12, with higher scores reflecting more vigor.
Time frame: 2 minutes before and 2-, 60-, and 120-minutes post-task periods
| Arm | Measure | Group | Value (MEAN) | Dispersion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Vigor | 60 min post task onset | 1.39 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 1.89 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Vigor | 2 min pre-task | 1.84 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 1.97 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Vigor | 120 min post task onset | 1.91 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 2.3 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Vigor | 2 min post-task | 3.19 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 2.28 |
| Control Session | Vigor | 120 min post task onset | 1.66 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 2.09 |
| Control Session | Vigor | 2 min pre-task | 1.65 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 1.87 |
| Control Session | Vigor | 60 min post task onset | 1.03 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 1.53 |
| Control Session | Vigor | 2 min post-task | 1.54 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 1.81 |
Comparison: Results below present the condition (stress/control) by time interactions.p-value: 0.04Mixed Models Analysis
Secondary
Wellbeing
Momentary assessment of wellbeing, measured as score on the wellbeing subscale on the brief Profile of Mood States questionnaire in response to the task periods. Scores range from 0 - 12, with higher scores reflecting more wellbeing.
Time frame: 2 minutes before and 2-, 60- and 120-minutes post-task periods
| Arm | Measure | Group | Value (MEAN) | Dispersion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Wellbeing | 2 min pre-task | 4.25 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 2.11 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Wellbeing | 2 min post-task | 3.56 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 2.19 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Wellbeing | 60-min post-task | 3.61 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 2.36 |
| Socio-evaluative Speech Stress Session | Wellbeing | 120-min post-task | 3.93 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 2.7 |
| Control Session | Wellbeing | 120-min post-task | 3.82 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 2.52 |
| Control Session | Wellbeing | 2 min pre-task | 4.10 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 2.04 |
| Control Session | Wellbeing | 60-min post-task | 3.81 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 2.31 |
| Control Session | Wellbeing | 2 min post-task | 3.93 score on a scale | Standard Deviation 2.34 |
Comparison: Results below present the condition (stress/control) by time interactions.p-value: 0.49Mixed Models Analysis