{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Mediating role of right superior corona microstructural changes in linking attentional control and trait anxiety among youth with childhood maltreatment.
{Author}: Wang J;Cheng Y;
{Journal}: Neuroreport
{Volume}: 35
{Issue}: 11
{Year}: 2024 Aug 7
{Factor}: 1.703
{DOI}: 10.1097/WNR.0000000000002053
{Abstract}: This study explores the neural correlates between attentional control and trait anxiety among youth with a history of childhood maltreatment. Using diffusion tensor imaging, we investigated the microstructural integrity of brain white matter, particularly focusing on the right superior corona radiata (SCA-R). A total of 173 university students with experiences of childhood maltreatment underwent behavioral assessments using the Attentional Control Scale and trait anxiety measurements via the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Our analysis found significant correlations between fractional anisotropy values in the SCA-R and trait anxiety levels, controlled for age and sex. Notably, SCA-R fractional anisotropy values partially mediated the relationship between attentional control and trait anxiety, suggesting a potential pathway through which attentional control could mitigate trait anxiety. These insights highlight attentional control as a potential mitigating factor against trait anxiety, particularly noting the partial mediation role of the SCA-R. Importantly, this study is descriptive and correlative, highlighting associations rather than causal relationships among the variables studied. These findings enhance our understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying anxiety in individuals with a history of childhood maltreatment.