Projects
Unravelling the pathophysiology of psychotic depression: the search for peripheral and endophenotypical biomarkers. University of Antwerp
Optimizing self-management in bipolar disorder by correlating mood and behavioural patterns using mHealth technology. University of Antwerp
Psychotic depression in older adults (60+) as prodrome/risk factor for cognitive deterioration/dementia. University of Antwerp
Should I stay or should I go? The exploration-exploitation dilemma when in pain KU Leuven
Daily life operates as a chain of decisions. Typically, an individual may choose to pursue what s/he already knows (exploitation), or to search for a better option (exploration). This explore/exploit dilemma has been developed, especially when people strive for rewards. To date however, decision processes in aversive contexts — such as when experiencing pain — remain poorly understood, despite their detrimental impact on daily functioning. ...
EEG measures and bodily symptoms KU Leuven
This project is part of our Methusalem research project “ASTHENES”, which aims at unravelling the biobehavioral mechanisms underlying the transition from acute aversive sensations to chronic bodily symptoms (eg, dyspnea and pain). Specifically, the focus of this 4-year PhD project will be the examination of potential neural markers using EEG methodology, which are related to increased perception of bodily sensations.
Methylation of the glucocorticoid receptor gene NR3C1-1F and impact on HPA axis function in non-pulsatile tinnitus with and without panic attacks. University of Antwerp
Using molecular signaling profile in white blood cells measured by highly-sensitive mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomics in the differential diagnosis between major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder. University of Antwerp
Research in the field of psychiatry and that of medical psychology. University of Antwerp
Learning and memory in psychopathology KU Leuven
Learning and memory play a central role in various forms of psychopathology. People with depressive complaints are characterized by overgeneral autobiographical memories, flashbacks are a core feature of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), avoidance learning is an important factor in the genesis and maintenance of clinical anxiety, and deficits in working memory and other executive functions are central in ADHD, to give but a few examples. ...