Overview
The field of surgery continues to benefit from innovative solutions, changing surgical methods and techniques. Evaluation in terms of efficacy and Quality-Safety is an essential topic that directly affects the introduction of innovations. It is essential to carry out a robust evaluation strategy for surgical innovations, even if these are often opposed to drug innovations. The aim of this study is to investigate the anthropological, socio-cultural and psychological differences of surgeons that influence the evaluation of surgical innovations.
Description
Forty-four individuals with high stress will be randomized 1:1, stratified by sex, to either MB-SPIRIT or wait-list. Participants will receive daily email with a link to a REDCap database to record minutes of formal meditation practice. Pre and post testing will occur within a 21-day testing period before or after the intervention. We will assess changes in spiritual well-being (Primary outcome), mindfulness, and use of character/virtue strengths (secondary outcomes). Changes in clinical symptoms will be explored. Participants will also complete a structured interview to assess developmental stage at the baseline time-point. Participants randomized to MB-Spirit will also undergo functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scanning before and after their program. Scans consist of a high-resolution gray matter scan, a 10-minute resting state scan and three 10-minute guided meditation scans. Participants will rate the 'depth' of each spiritual state they experience while they are in the scanner on a 5-point scale. As a manipulation check, after exiting the scanner they will be asked to describe the non-dual states and which virtues arose. We will also assess the acceptability of the task.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Understands English
- Able to attend all 8 classes
- Able to travel to Boston for MRI scans
Exclusion Criteria:
- claustrophobia, pregnancy, head trauma, metallic implants or devices contraindicating MRI, left-handed, conditions that alter cerebral blood flow or metabolism (e.g. stroke), current use of psychotropic medications, lifetime history of suicidality, homicidally, self-destructive acts, schizophrenia or psychosis.
