Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
10306049 | Psychoneuroendocrinology | 2013 | 8 Pages |
Abstract
We conclude that moderate delays between awakening and collection of saliva samples previously considered tolerable result in erroneous estimation of CAR magnitude and timing of the peak. These results are attributed to an approximate 10Â min time lag between awakening and the start of the cortisol rise. The absence of this latent period in calculations leads to overestimation of the CAR magnitude on moderately non-adherent sampling days. These findings, if more universally generalizable, will further theoretical understanding of the physiology of the CAR, but are methodologically challenging for researchers since self-reported awakening times are not accurate enough to override the concerns raised. However accurate electronic measurement of adherence to protocol would enable sampling delays to be taken into account in computing CAR estimates.
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Authors
Nina Smyth, Angela Clow, Lisa Thorn, Frank Hucklebridge, Phil Evans,