Publications by authors named "Megan N Cardenas"
While the impact of chronic, low-grade inflammation on cognitive functioning is documented in the context of neurodegenerative disease, less is known about the association between acute increases in inflammation and cognitive functioning in daily life. This study investigated how changes in interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels were associated with performance on an inhibitory control task, the go/no-go task. We further examined whether the opportunity to earn different incentive types (social or monetary) and magnitudes (high or low) was associated with differential performance on the task, depending on IL-6 levels.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFRecent evidence has documented associations between higher levels of inflammation and social approach behaviors toward close others in laboratory-based tasks. Yet it is unknown if this translates to interactions with close others in daily life. Given that momentary experiences of social connection have both relational and health consequences, this is a critical gap in our knowledge.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFArticle Synopsis
- Racial health disparities in the U.S. starkly affect Black Americans compared to White Americans, largely stemming from historical and systemic anti-Black racism.
- The article proposes a model suggesting that racism impacts brain activity and bodily processes, particularly affecting neural networks responsible for emotion and decision-making, which can lead to increased inflammation in the body.
- These responses may result in chronic health issues and reduced well-being, highlighting the need for further research to understand the connections between racism and health outcomes.