Non-Conscious Negativity Bias as a Predictor of Depression Severity in TMS Patients

Abstract Background: Patients who undergo TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) are typically assessed using subjective rating scales. However, more objective assessments may lead to the development of biomarkers that be better able predict outcomes after TMS. In this study, we evaluated non-conscious negativity bias test as an measure depression severity. Design: This was a retrospective study convenience sample 8 patients undergoing treatment for major depression. took from computerized platform (Total Brain). involved recognizing facial emotional expression (fear, anger, disgust, sadness, happiness, or neutrality) quickly possible. After first task, set two faces presented, with one face repeated previous and new. Both displayed same emotion, task select seen task. Raw scores were time correct responses each four negative emotions disgust). converted percentile score based on age, education level, gender. Percentiles 1-30 categorized low, 30-70 medium, 70-100 high. Results: Out 4 scored in low category test, all them (100%) rated their PHQ9 moderately severe range (15-27). not 1 (25%). Using Fisher Exact association between variables approached significance (p=0.14). Discussion: results implicit suggestive severity A larger size help clarify its use real-world populations. Research Category Technology Methods Clinical Research: 10. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Keywords: TMS, Depression, Biomarker, Cognitive