LIFU for Anxiety Management

This study is examining the effects of noninvasive brain stimulation on anxiety. Low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) will be utilized to neuromodulate the brain prior to a task (NPU). Physiological recordings will be taken throughout (EEG, EMG, HR, BP, RR, GSR).

This study is a research project examining the effects of noninvasive brain stimulation on anxiety. This study will help us to better understand possible treatments for patients diagnosed with anxiety disorders. Participants will undergo a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and a computed tomography (CT) scan, to image the bone and brain tissue. Participants will receive noninvasive brain stimulation using low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) sound waves, to temporarily change brain activity. Participants will undergo a threat task involving brief (100ms) shocks (1-5mA) and startle noises. Brain signals (EEG), muscle twitch (EMG), heart rate and rhythm, blood pressure, respiration rate, and skin moisture will be monitored throughout. Participants will be asked to complete behavioral questionnaires.

Participants will act as their own sham - sham vs real will be conducted in separate study visits. 2 arms exist for 2 variations of the NPU task.

Participant will experience the same setup in real and sham conditions. The gel puck used to couple the ultrasound signal will either have a blocking disk, or no blocking disk to either allow or block the ultrasound signal.

Participant will be presented with a series of images (cues) and sounds. Three conditions will occur - a no shock (N), predictable shock (P), and unpredictable shock (U). In P, shocks will only occur with the cue. In U, shocks will happen at any time. Participants will be told which condition they are in throughout the task. Startle sounds will occur throughout. 3 Study visits will occur - identical conditions for the participant, testing 2 brain regions and 1 sham visit.

Participants will be presented with a moving line. When the line reaches a certain point - an event will occur. This event will either be a painful shock or a monetary reward. Startle sounds will occur throughout. 3 study visits will occur - identical conditions for the participant, testing 2 brain regions and 1 sham visit.

A noninvasive brain stimulation device using low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) - ultrasound will be used to test whether noninvasive brain stimulation can reduce reactions to sensory stimuli.

A sham condition that will mimic the application of LIFU without actually administering any ultrasound to the brain.

Attenuated amplitude of startle reflex during uncertain and predictable threat tasks with lifu compared to sham.

Inclusion Criteria: High or low trait anxiety Exclusion Criteria: claustrophobia Contraindications to MRI (implants) Contraindications to CT (pregnancy) Active medical disorder with CNS effects (e.g. Alzheimers) History of neurologic disorder (e.g. Parkinson's, epilepsy) History of head injury w/ LOC for >10 min History of alcohol or drug dependence History of current cardiovascular disease