Predicting Illness Trajectories In Fully Remitted Major Depression Using Concurrent TBS/fNIRS

TBS comprises 3-pulse 50-Hz bursts, applied every 200 ms (at 5 Hz), as described previously. iTBS consists of 2-second trains with an inter-train interval of 8 seconds. The investigators will repeat the trains (30 pulses; 10 bursts) 20 times to reach a total number of 600 pulses (3x10x20). cTBS will comprise uninterrupted bursts to reach a total of 600 pulses. Concurrent TBS/fNIRS stimulation will be applied over the left (iTBS) and right (cTBS) DLPFC at an intensity of 90% resting motor threshold (RMT). This corresponds to \~110% of the active motor threshold. Stimulation at 90% RMT will also ensure compliance, reduce sensory discomfort and minimize dropout rates. Still, scalp discomfort will be recorded directly after the stimulation. The stimulation site over the DLPFC will be determined using the international 10-20 system and correspond to the F3 label.

Telephone interviews will be conducted at the follow-up stage. RMDD group will receive follow-up telephone interviews every 3 months for 2 years to monitor major depressive episode recurrence