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Modulation of fear extinction by non-invasive brain stimulation: systematic review and meta-analysis
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  • Ye Zhang,
  • Jingyuan Lin,
  • Haoran Dou,
  • Huoyin Zhang,
  • Ying Cao,
  • Yi Lei
Ye Zhang
Sichuan Normal University
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Jingyuan Lin
Sichuan Normal University
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Haoran Dou
Sichuan Normal University
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Huoyin Zhang
Sichuan Normal University
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Ying Cao
Sichuan Normal University
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Yi Lei
Sichuan Normal University

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Abstract

Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) is an emerging treatment for mental disorders that is painlessness and easy to administer. However, its effectiveness for treating fear extinction requires further elucidation. We searched eight bibliographical databases and identified randomized controlled trials of NIBS interventions for fear extinction in healthy populations. Outcomes were evaluated based on skin conductance response (SCR) under three experimental conditions: threat condition stimulation (CS+), safe condition stimulation (CS−), and their discrimination (CS+ minus CS−). We applied a random-effects model to determine effect sizes (Hedge’s g) post-intervention and assessed article quality using Physiotherapy evidence database (PEDro) scale. Twenty-one studies meeting systematic review criteria were included in this analysis, incorporating 40 independent effect sizes and data from 11 studies (n = 632) in the meta-analysis. Compared with the control group, the intervention group exhibited significant reductions SCRs: CS+ (g = −0.32, 95% confidence interval (CI) [−0.56, −0.07]) and discrimination (g = −0.35; 95% CI [−0.55, −0.15]). Fear extinction was more effective in the 24-hour test than immediately after NIBS. In conclusion, NIBS enhanced fear extinction, and the time interval between stimulus and testing may serve as a moderating variable.
07 Jun 2024Submitted to Psychophysiology
11 Jun 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
27 Aug 2024Editorial Decision: Revise Minor
05 Oct 20241st Revision Received
07 Oct 2024Assigned to Editor
07 Oct 2024Submission Checks Completed
07 Oct 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
08 Oct 2024Reviewer(s) Assigned