Moderating role of functioning level on the association between suicidal ideation and delayed-onset post-traumatic stress disorder.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between suicidal ideation at baseline and the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in individuals who have experienced physical injuries, with a specific focus on how this relationship is moderated by the patient's functioning level. METHODS: Participants were consecutively recruited from a trauma center and prospectively followed for two years. At baseline, suicidal ideation was assessed using the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale, and functioning level was evaluated using the Social and Occupational Functioning Assessment Scale. During the follow-up, PTSD diagnosis was established using the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5. Binary and multinomial logistic regression analyses were employed to examine the associations between suicidal ideation, functioning level, and PTSD. RESULTS: Of the 1014 participants analyzed, 114 (11.2%) developed PTSD, with early-onset observed in 79 (7.8%) and delayed-onset in 35 (3.5%) cases. Suicidal ideation at baseline was significantly associated with both early- and delayed-onset PTSD. Notably, higher functioning individuals with baseline suicidal ideation had an increased likelihood of developing delayed-onset PTSD, while this association was not significant in lower functioning individuals, with significant interaction terms. Additionally, suicidal ideation was a consistent predictor of early-onset PTSD across all functioning levels. CONCLUSION: The impact of baseline suicidal ideation on PTSD varies depending on the individual's functioning level, with higher functioning individuals being more vulnerable to delayed-onset PTSD. These findings underscore the importance of considering functional status in the assessment and intervention of PTSD following physical trauma.

Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor Methylation and Long-term Outcomes after Stroke Interacting with Suicidal Ideation.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the unexplored relationship between BDNF methylation, long-term outcomes, and its interaction with suicidal ideation (SI), which is closely associated with both BDNF expression and stroke outcomes. Methods: A total of 278 stroke patients were assessed for BDNF methylation status and SI using suicide-related item in the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale at 2 weeks post-stroke. We investigated the incidence of composite cerebro-cardiovascular events (CCVEs) during an 8-14-year period after the initial stroke as long-term stroke outcome. We conducted Cox regression models adjusted for covariates to evaluate the association between BDNF methylation status and CCVEs, as well as its interaction with post-stroke SI at 2 weeks. Results: Higher methylation status of CpG 1, 3, and 5, but not the average value, predicted a greater number of composite CCVEs during 8-14 years following the stroke. The associations between a higher methylation status of CpGs 1, 3, 5, and 8, as well as the average BDNF methylation value, and a greater number of composite CCVEs, were prominent in patients who had post-stroke SI at 2 weeks. Notably, a significant interaction between methylation status and SI on composite CCVEs was observed only for CpG 8. Conclusion: The significant association between BDNF methylation and poor long-term stroke outcomes, particularly amplified in individuals who had post-stroke SI at 2 weeks, suggested that evaluating the biological marker status of BDNF methylation along with assessing SI during the acute phase of stroke can help predict long-term outcomes.

Optimal surgical management of unifocal vs. multifocal NF-PNETs: a respective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs) represent 1-2% of pancreatic tumors, with recent guidelines recommending active surveillance for non-functioning PNETs (NF-PNETs) smaller than 2 cm. However, the management of multiple NF-PNETs, as well as the influence of tumor number on prognosis, remains under-researched. METHODS: This retrospective study analyzed NF-PNET patients who underwent pancreatic resection at Severance Hospital between February 1993 and August 2023, comparing the characteristics of patients diagnosed with multifocal tumors and those with unifocal tumors. A subgroup analysis of overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) was performed based on multifocality employing the Kaplan-Meier method and the log-rank test. RESULTS: Of 187 patients, 169 (90.4%) had unifocal and 18 (9.6%) had multifocal tumors. Multifocal tumors were more likely to be diffusely spread, necessitating more total pancreatectomies (diffuse tumor location: 4.7% in unifocal vs. 38.9% in multifocal cases, p < 0.001; total pancreatectomy: 4.1% in unifocal vs. 33.3% in multifocal cases, p < 0.001). In patients with NF-PNET who underwent the same extent of pancreatic resection, no significant difference in the incidence of complication was observed regardless of multifocality. Moreover, no significant difference in OS was seen between the unifocal and multifocal groups (log-rank test: p = 0.93). However, the multifocal group exhibited a poorer prognosis in terms of RFS compared to the unifocal group (log-rank test: p = 0.004) Hereditary syndrome, tumor grade, size, lymphovascular invasion, and lymph node metastasis were key factors in the recurrence. CONCLUSION: This study's findings suggest that the presence of multiple tumors was associated with poorer recurrence-free survival but did not affect long-term survival following surgery. Given the long-term oncologic outcome and quality of life following surgery, resection of tumors over 2 cm is advisable in patients with multifocal PNETs, while a cautious "wait-and-see" approach for smaller tumors (under 2 cm) can minimize the extent of resection and improve the quality of life. In cases with only small multifocal NF-PNETs (< 2 cm), immediate resection may not be crucial, but the higher recurrence rate than that in solitary NF-PNET necessitates intensified surveillance.

Impact of suicidality on delayed-onset post-traumatic stress disorder is modified by age: A two-year longitudinal study.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between early suicidality and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) onset in patients with physical injuries, focusing on age as a modifying factor. METHODS: At baseline, 1014 patients were evaluated for suicidality, age divided into younger (<60 years) vs. older (≥60 years) groups, and potential covariates. PTSD was diagnosed at follow-up at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months, and then were categorized into early-onset (within the first six months after trauma) and delayed-onset (more than six months after trauma). Logistic regression models were used after adjusting for covariates. RESULTS: Presence of suicidality at baseline was significantly associated with delayed-onset PTSD in older but not younger patients with significant interaction terms, whereas it was significantly associated with early-onset PTSD across all age groups. CONCLUSION: Age-specific associations were found between suicidality and PTSD onset. The findings highlight the importance of early suicidality assessment, especially in older patients for ongoing monitoring and support, and underscore the critical need for early PTSD identification and intervention for all ages.

Identification of depression in patients with acute coronary syndrome using multiple serum biomarkers.

BACKGROUND: Biomarkers for depression in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) have not been identified. METHODS: This study evaluated multiple serum biomarkers for depressive disorders after ACS. Thirteen serum biomarkers associated with seven functional systems, along with sociodemographic/clinical characteristics, were evaluated in 969 patients within 2 weeks after ACS onset (acute phase). In total, 711 patients were evaluated for depressive disorder using DSM-IV criteria 1 year later (chronic phase). Logistic regression was used for the analysis. RESULTS: Depressive disorders were observed in 378 patients (39.0%) in the acute phase of ACS and 183 patients (25.7%) in the chronic phase. The weighted scores of five serum biomarkers (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, homocysteine, troponin I, and creatine kinase-MB) were significantly associated with depressive disorder diagnosis in the acute phase, and the weighted scores of three other biomarkers (tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-1 beta, and homocysteine) were significantly associated with depressive disorders in the chronic phase, in a dose-dependent manner after adjusting for relevant covariates (all P-values <0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The combination of several serum biomarkers exhibited robust associations with depressive disorders in both the acute and chronic phases of ACS.

Predicting suicidal ideation using multiple serum biomarkers in patients with acute coronary syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Biomarkers for suicidal behavior in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) have yet to be elucidated. This study aimed to identify a panel of serum biomarkers associated with suicidal ideation (SI) in patients with ACS. METHODS: The study evaluated 969 patients within 2 weeks of ACS (acute phase) and 711 patients 12 months later (chronic phase). The evaluation included 14 serum biomarkers covering 7 functional systems, socio-demographic/clinical characteristics, and SI assessed by the "suicidal thoughts" item of the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale. Logistic regression models were used to analyze the data. The results showed that 195 patients (20.1 %) had SI in the acute phase, and 87 patients (12.2 %) had SI in the chronic phase. RESULTS: A combination of five serum biomarkers (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1ß, folate, troponin I, and creatine kinase-MB) was significantly associated with SI in the acute phase, and a combination of three serum biomarkers (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1ß, and folate) was significantly associated with SI in the chronic phase in a clear dose-dependent manner (all P-values < 0.001) after adjustment for relevant covariates. DISCUSSION: These findings suggest that the application of a combination of multiple serum biomarkers could improve the predictability of SI in patients with ACS at both acute and chronic phases.

Use of Serum Biomarkers to Aid Antidepressant Selection in Depressive Patients.

Objective: : This study aimed to identify serum biomarkers prospectively associated with remission at 12 weeks in out-patients with depressive disorders receiving stepwise psychopharmacotherapy, according to the main antidepressant used during the treatment period. Methods: : This study included 1,024 depressive outpatients initially treated using antidepressant monotherapy, followed by alternating pharmacological strategies during the acute phase (3-12 weeks; 3-week interval). Fourteen serum biomarkers, sociodemographics, and clinical characteristics were evaluated at baseline. Based on the use frequency and mechanism of action, four main antidepressant types were distinguished: escitalopram, other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and mirtazapine. A Hamilton Depression Rating Scale score ≤ 7 was take to indicate remission. Results: : Lower high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels were correlated with remission at 12 weeks for all antidepressant types. Lower interleukin (IL)-6 levels and tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels were associated with remission using escitalopram and other SSRIs respectively. Lower IL-1ß and leptin levels, predicted remission in association with SSRIs including escitalopram. For SNRIs, remission at 12 weeks was predicted by lower IL-4 and IL-10 levels. For mirtazapine, remission at 12 weeks was associated with lower leptin levels, and higher serotonin and folate levels. Conclusion: : Baseline serum status, as estimated by nine serum markers, may help clinicians determine the most appropriate antidepressant to achieve remission in the acute phase of depression.

Two Cases of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Caused by a Motor Vehicle Accident Treated with Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy.

Exposure-response prevention is an effective approach to treat anxiety disorders. Virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET) is a promising treatment for patients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). New research has helped refine and update VRET. In this study, we introduce a form of VRET developed for patients suffering from PTSD after a traffic accident, and present two cases treated using this protocol. After 6 weeks of VRET treatment, the two participants not only improved their PTSD symptoms, but also improved their depressed mood, anxiety, and insomnia symptoms. Future studies of VRET for car accident-related PTSD should utilize a controlled design with randomization in order to account for numerous possible confounds.

Transition of Carbon Nanotube Sheets from Hydrophobicity to Hydrophilicity by Facile Electrochemical Wetting.

The present study delves into the transformative effects of electrochemical oxidation on the hydrophobic-to-hydrophilic transition of carbon nanotube (CNT) sheets. The paper elucidates the inherent advantages of CNT sheets, such as high electrical conductivity and mechanical strength, and contrasts them with the limitations posed by their hydrophobic nature. A comprehensive investigation is conducted to demonstrate the efficacy of electrochemical oxidation treatment in modifying the surface properties of CNT sheets, thereby making them hydrophilic. The study reveals that the treatment not only is cost-effective and time-efficient compared to traditional plasma treatment methods but also results in a significant decrease in water contact angle. Mechanistic insights into the hydrophilic transition are provided, emphasizing the role of oxygen-containing functional groups introduced during the electrochemical oxidation process.

Association between suicidal ideation and cognitive function in young patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorder.

Introduction: Suicide is a major concern for patients with recent-onset schizophrenia. We hypothesized that preserved cognitive function might be associated with a higher level of suicidality in patients with schizophrenia. We investigated the associations between cognitive function and suicidal ideation (SI) in young patients recently diagnosed with a psychotic disorder. Methods: This study analyzed data from a naturalistic clinical cohort study that comprised 402 patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorder. Patients with a treatment duration of ≤5 years and an age range of 15-39 years were enrolled. Participants were categorized into two groups based on SI as assessed by the Columbia Suicidal Severity Rating Scale. We collected demographic and clinical data and administered psychiatric, neurocognitive, and social cognitive measures. Results: Among participants, 52% reported experiencing SI. Patients with SI were significantly younger and had a longer duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) than those without it. The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale-general psychopathology score was significantly higher in the SI group. Scores on the Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia, Perceived Stress Scale, Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Beck Hopelessness Scale were significantly higher among patients with SI, while scores on the Subjective Well-being Under Neuroleptics-Short Form and Brief Resilience Scale were significantly lower compared to those without it. Patients with SI demonstrated significantly higher scores on the verbal and visual learning test, false belief task, picture stories task, and Controlled Oral Word Association Test. They also completed the Trail Making Test (TMT) parts A and B in significantly less time than those without it. After adjusting for age, DUP, and scores on the BDI, group differences in scores on the verbal and visual learning tests, TMT (parts A and B), and the false belief task, and the picture story task remained significant. Discussion: Our results suggest that along with traditional risk factors, better cognitive function may also be a major risk factor for suicidality in patients with schizophrenia. Providing psychological support and cognitive interventions is essential for young patients with recent-onset schizophrenia spectrum disorders, particularly those with high levels of depression, hopelessness, perceived stress, low resilience, and good cognitive function.

Electrochemically Oxidized Carbon Nanotube Sheets for High-Performance and Flexible-Film Supercapacitors.

The development of flexible, high-performance supercapacitors has been a focal point in energy storage research. While carbon nanotube (CNT) sheets offer promising mechanical and electrical properties, their low electrical double-layer capacitance significantly limits their practicability. Herein, we introduce a novel approach to address this challenge via the electrochemical oxidation treatment of CNT sheets stacked on a polyethylene terephthalate substrate. This introduces oxygen-containing functional groups onto the CNT surface, thereby dramatically enhancing the pseudocapacitive effect and improving ion adsorption. Consequently, using the material in a two-electrode system increased the capacitance by 54 times compared to pristine CNT. The results of electrochemical performance characterization, including cyclic voltammograms, galvanostatic charge/discharge curves, and capacitance retention testing data, confirm the efficacy of the electrochemical oxidation approach. Furthermore, the mechanical flexibility of the electrochemically wetted CNT sheets was validated through resistance and discharge retention testing under repetitive bending (98% capacitance retention after 1000 bending cycles). The results demonstrate that electrochemically wetted CNT sheets retain their intrinsic mechanical and electrical properties while significantly enhancing the electrochemical performance (0.59 mF/cm2 or 97.8 F/g). This work represents a significant advancement in the development of flexible, high-performance supercapacitors with potential applicability to wearable electronics, flexible displays, and next-generation energy storage solutions.

Peripheral Markers of Suicidal Behavior: Current Findings and Clinical Implications.

Biomarkers of suicidal behavior (SB), particularly peripheral biomarkers, may aid in the development of preventive and intervention strategies. The peripheral biomarkers of SB should be easily accessible, cost-effective, and minimally invasive. To identify peripheral biomarkers of SB, we summarized the current knowledge related to SB biomarkers with a focus on suicidal outcomes (suicidal ideation [SI], suicide risk [SR], suicide attempt [SA], and suicide death [SD]), measured site (center or periphery), and study design (cross-sectional or longitudinal). We also evaluated the central findings to validate the findings of peripheral biomarkers of SB. We found reduced peripheral interleukin (IL)-2 levels in individuals with a recent SA, higher cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) IL-6 levels in patients with a current SR and future SD, higher CSF tumor necrosis factor-α levels for current and future SRs, higher high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels and lower peripheral total cholesterol levels for recent SAs, lower peripheral 5-HT levels for present SR, and a lower folate level for future SR and SA within 1 year. Previous studies have shown inconsistent associations of low peripheral leptin levels with SR and recent SA; therefore, further study is required. Given the multiple determinants of SB and weak associations with single biological markers, combinations of potential biological markers rather than single markers may improve the screening, diagnosis, and prediction of SB.

Inflammatory markers of symptomatic remission at 6 months in patients with first-episode schizophrenia.

Neuroinflammation contributes to the pathophysiology of various mental illnesses including schizophrenia. We investigated peripheral inflammatory cytokines as a biomarker for predicting symptomatic remission in patients with first-episode schizophrenia. The study included 224 patients aged 15-60 years who fulfilled the criteria for schizophrenia spectrum disorder with a treatment duration ≤6 months. Serum levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) -α, interferon-γ, interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1ß, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and IL-12 were measured. Psychotic symptoms, depressive symptoms, and general functioning were assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia, and Personal and Social Performance scale, respectively. Duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) was also recorded. We investigated the factors associated with remission for each sex in logistic regression analysis. In total, 174 patients achieved remission at the 6-month follow-up (females, 83.5%; males, 70.9%). Remission was associated with older age and lower BDI scores in male patients and with lower TNF-α levels and shorter DUP in female patients. Our findings suggest that peripheral inflammatory cytokines may impede early symptomatic remission in female patients with schizophrenia. In addition, depressive symptoms in males and long DUP in females may be poor prognostic factors for early remission in patients with first-episode psychosis.

Hierarchically Plied Mechano-Electrochemical Energy Harvesting Using a Scalable Kinematic Sensing Textile Woven from a Graphene-Coated Commercial Cotton Yarn.

Wearable sensing systems are suitable for monitoring human motion. To realize a cost-effective and self-powered strain-sensing fiber, we developed a mechano-electrochemical harvesting yarn and textile using hierarchically arranged plied yarns composed of meter-long graphene-coated cotton yarns. Such a fiber relies on the principle of electrochemical capacity change to convert mechanical energy to electric energy. Further, this harvester can be used as a self-powered strain sensor because its output depends on mechanical stimuli. Additionally, the yarn can be woven into a kinematic sensing textile that measures the strength and direction of the applied force. The textile-type harvester can successfully detect various human movements such as pressing, bending, and stretching. The proposed sensing fiber will pave the way for the development of advanced wearable systems for ubiquitous healthcare in the future.

Psychological and Personality Characteristics Associated With COVID-19 Vaccination Behavior in Korean General Population.

BACKGROUND: This study characterized coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination behavior in the Korean general population using cluster analysis and explored related psychological factors. METHODS: We categorized 1,500 individuals based on their attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccination using hierarchical clustering and identified their level of vaccine acceptance. We examined the associations between vaccine acceptance and behavioral and psychological characteristics. RESULTS: Clustering revealed three groups according to vaccine acceptance: 'totally accepting' (n = 354, 23.6%), 'somewhat accepting' (n = 523, 34.9%), and 'reluctant' (n = 623, 41.5%). Approximately 60% of all participants who belonged to the 'totally accepting' and 'somewhat accepting' groups were willing to receive a COVID-19 vaccine despite concerns about its side effects. High vaccine acceptance was associated with older age, regular influenza vaccination, and trust in formal sources of information. Participants with high vaccine acceptance had higher levels of gratitude, extraversion, agreeableness, and conscientiousness, and lower levels of depression, anxiety, and neuroticism. CONCLUSIONS: People weighed the benefits of COVID-19 vaccination against the risk of side effects when deciding to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Our findings also indicate that this vaccination behavior may be affected by coping mechanisms and psychological factors.

Effect Modification of Cortisol on the Associations Between Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms on Suicidality in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome.

OBJECTIVE: Obsessive-compulsive symptoms (OCS) and suicidal ideation (SI) are common in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). This study investigated the associations of OCS and serum cortisol levels with SI, and further evaluated the possible modifying effects of cortisol on the associations between OCS and SI in acute and chronic phases of ACS. METHODS: In total, 969 ACS patients were recruited from a tertiary university hospital in Korea within 2 weeks of disease onset and evaluated in terms of OCS (using the OCS dimension of the Symptom Checklist-90-Revised), serum cortisol levels, and SI (using the "suicidal thoughts" item of the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale). Covariates included sociodemographics, depression, vascular risk factors, and disease severity. After 1 year, 711 patients were re-evaluated in terms of SI. Logistic regression analysis was performed with adjustment for covariates. RESULTS: Higher OCS was significantly associated with SI both at baseline and follow-up. Serum cortisol showed no such association, but modified the association between OCS and SI. That was the associations were significant only in the higher but not in the lower serum cortisol levels, with significant interaction terms after adjusted for relevant covariates. CONCLUSION: Evaluating OCS and serum cortisol levels at the acute phase could improve the accuracy of clinical predictions of SI both in the acute and chronic phases of ACS.

Suicide and Non-Suicidal Self-Injury From Internet Addiction Among Korean Adolescents.

Objectives: This study examined the associations between Internet addiction and suicide and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) among South Korean adolescents. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of 1694 Korean adolescents. The suicidal Ideation Questionnaire and Deliberate Self- Harm Inventories were used to identify high-risk suicide and NSSI groups, respectively. Internet addiction was assessed using the Internet Addiction Scale. Other questionnaires included sociodemographic data, perceived academic stress, and daily life-related factors. We also performed a logistic regression analysis using the high suicide risk and NSSI groups as dependent variables. Results: The high suicide risk and NSSI prevalence rates among participants were 11.8% and 28.3%, respectively. A multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that Internet addiction is associated with higher suicide risk and NSSI. Additionally, being female and academic stress were significant suicide risk factors, while male participants had a higher NSSI prevalence. Conclusion: Our results suggest that monitoring adolescents' Internet use and providing education to prevent Internet addiction would lower high suicide and NSSI risk. Moreover, suicide and NSSI risk screening in adolescents with Internet addiction and providing suitable interventions will be essential for the preventing suicide and NSSI.

COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and related behavioral and psychological characteristics in individuals with mental disorders in Korea.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and related factors in individuals with mental disorders in Korea. Methods: We surveyed 572 individuals with mental disorders about their attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccination using a 7-item self-rating questionnaire on vaccine acceptance and hesitancy. We categorized the respondents into groups based on their level of vaccine acceptance using hierarchical clustering. In addition, we evaluated the respondents' vaccination status and trust in sources of information regarding COVID-19 vaccines, and assessed their psychological characteristics using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, Gratitude Questionnaire-6, and Big Five Inventory-10. Results: Clustering revealed three groups according to vaccine acceptance: 'totally accepting' (n= 246, 43.0%), 'somewhat accepting' (n= 184, 32.2%), and 'hesitant' (n= 142, 24.8%) groups. Three quarters of all participants, who belonged to the 'totally accepting' or 'somewhat accepting' groups, were willing to receive a COVID-19 vaccine despite concerns about its side effects. Individuals in the high vaccine acceptance group were older (F= 12.52, p< 0.001), more likely to receive the influenza vaccine regularly, and more likely to trust formal information sources. Additionally, they had higher levels of gratitude (F= 21.00, p< 0.001) and agreeableness (F= 4.50, p= 0.011), and lower levels of depression (χ2= 11.81, p= 0.003) and neuroticism (F= 3.71, p= 0.025). Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that individuals with mental disorders were generally willing to receive COVID-19 vaccination. However, they weighed its need and effectiveness against potential side effects before coming to a decision. It is important to understand the behavioral and psychological characteristics associated with vaccine acceptance, to effectively communicate its importance to individuals with mental disorders.

Age-specific associations between serum cholesterol levels and suicidal behaviors in patients with depressive disorders: A naturalistic prospective observational cohort study.

Introduction: This study investigated the effects of total cholesterol levels on prevalent, and incident suicidal behaviors according to age group (<60 vs. ≥60 years) in depressed patients. Methods: Consecutive outpatients with depressive disorders who visited the Chonnam National University Hospital between March 2012 and April 2017 were recruited. Among 1,262 patients assessed at baseline, 1,094 agreed to blood sampling for measurement of serum total cholesterol levels. Among the patients, 884 completed the 12-week acute treatment phase and were followed up at least once during the 12-month continuation treatment phase. Suicidal behaviors assessed at baseline included baseline suicidal severity; behaviors assessed at the 1-year follow-up included increased suicidal severity and fatal/non-fatal suicide attempts. Associations of baseline total cholesterol levels with the above-mentioned suicidal behaviors were analyzed using logistic regression models after adjustment for relevant covariates. Results: Of 1,094 depressed patients, 753 (68.8%) were women. The mean (SD) age of patients was 57.0 (14.9) years. Lower total cholesterol levels (87-161 mg/dl) were associated with increased suicidal severity (Linear Wald = 4.478, p < 0.05) and fatal/non-fatal suicide attempt (Linear Wald = 7.490, p < 0.01) in patients <60 years of age. U-shaped associations between total cholesterol levels and 1-year follow-up suicidal outcomes (increased suicidal severity, Quadratic Wald = 6.299, p < 0.05; fatal/non-fatal suicide attempt, Quadratic Wald = 5.697, p < 0.05) were observed in patients ≥60 years of age. Conclusions: These findings suggest that differential consideration of serum total cholesterol levels according to age group may have clinical utility for predicting suicidality in patients with depressive disorders. However, because our research participants came from a single-hospital, the generalizability of our findings may be limited.

Ghrelin Modifies the Impact of Life Stress on Suicidality in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome.

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated associations of life stressors and serum ghrelin levels with suicidal ideation (SI), and evaluated the potential mediating effect of ghrelin on associations between life stressors and SI in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). METHODS: In total, 969 ACS patients recruited from a tertiary university hospital in Korea within 2 weeks of disease onset were evaluated in terms of life stressors (using the List of Threatening Events Questionnaire), serum ghrelin levels, and SI (using the "suicidal thoughts" item of the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale). Covariates included sociodemographics, depression, vascular risk factors, and disease severity. After 1 year, 711 patients were re-evaluated in terms of SI; logistic regression was performed with adjustment for covariates. RESULTS: Life stressors were significantly associated with SI at baseline and follow-up. Serum ghrelin showed no such associations, but high levels thereof mediated associations of life stressors with SI; significant interaction terms were also observed after adjustment for covariates. CONCLUSION: By evaluating life stressors and serum ghrelin levels, clinical prediction of SI in the acute and chronic phases of ACS could be improved.