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Mercadante S, Bellastella A. Chrono-Endocrinology in Clinical Practice: A Journey from Pathophysiological to Therapeutic Aspects. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:546. [PMID: 38792568 PMCID: PMC11121809 DOI: 10.3390/life14050546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
This review was aimed at collecting the knowledge on the pathophysiological and clinical aspects of endocrine rhythms and their implications in clinical practice, derived from the published literature and from some personal experiences on this topic. We chose to review, according to the PRISMA guidelines, the results of original and observational studies, reviews, meta-analyses and case reports published up to March 2024. Thus, after summarizing the general aspects of biological rhythms, we will describe the characteristics of several endocrine rhythms and the consequences of their disruption, paying particular attention to the implications in clinical practice. Rhythmic endocrine secretions, like other physiological rhythms, are genetically determined and regulated by a central hypothalamic CLOCK located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, which links the timing of the rhythms to independent clocks, in a hierarchical organization for the regulation of physiology and behavior. However, some environmental factors, such as daily cycles of light/darkness, sleep/wake, and timing of food intake, may influence the rhythm characteristics. Endocrine rhythms are involved in important physiological processes and their disruption may cause several disorders and also cancer. Thus, it is very important to prevent disruptions of endocrine rhythms and to restore a previously altered rhythm by an early corrective chronotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonio Bellastella
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Respiratory Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80131 Naples, Italy;
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Moraes MM, Marques AL, Borges L, Hatanaka E, Heller D, Núñez-Espinosa C, Gonçalves DAP, Soares DD, Wanner SP, Mendes TT, Arantes RME. Sleep impairment and altered pattern of circadian biomarkers during a long-term Antarctic summer camp. Sci Rep 2023; 13:15959. [PMID: 37749123 PMCID: PMC10519969 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-42910-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Antarctic expeditions include isolation and exposure to cold and extreme photoperiods (with continuous natural light during summer) that may influence psychophysiological responses modulated by luminosity and sleep. We assessed changes in night sleep patterns by actigraphy, salivary biomarkers, and perceptual variables in seven participants in the following time points along a 50-day camping expedition in Antarctica (Nelson Island): Pre-Field (i.e., on the ship before camp), Field-1, Field-2, Field-3, Field-4 (from 1st to 10th, 11th to 20th, 21st to 35th and 36th to 50th days in camp, respectively), and Post-Field (on the ship after camp). We also characterized mood states, daytime sleepiness, and sleep quality by questionnaires. Staying in an Antarctic camp reduced sleep efficiency (5.2%) and increased the number of awakenings and wakefulness after sleep onset (51.8% and 67.1%, respectively). Furthermore, transient increases in time in bed (16.5%) and sleep onset latency (4.8 ± 4.0 min, from Pre- to Field-3) was observed. These changes were accompanied by an altered pattern of the emerging circadian marker β-Arrestin-1 and a trend to reduce nocturnal melatonin [57.1%; P = 0.066, with large effect size (ES) from Pre-Field to Field-2 (ES = 1.2) and Field-3 (ES = 1.2)]. All changes returned to Pre-Field values during the Post-Field. The volunteers reported sleep-related physical complaints (feeling of cold and pain, discomfort to breathe, and cough or loud snoring), excessive daytime sleepiness, and reduced vigor during the camp. Thus, a 50-day camp alters neuroendocrine regulation and induces physical discomfort, which may explain the impaired sleep pattern and the consequent daytime sleepiness and mood changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Macedo Moraes
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
- Center for Newborn Screening and Genetics Diagnosis, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (NUPAD-FM/UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Alice Lamounier Marques
- Post-Graduation Program in Social Sciences in Development, Culture and Society, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil
| | - Leandro Borges
- Interdisciplinary Program in Health Sciences, Universidade Cruzeiro do Sul, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Elaine Hatanaka
- Interdisciplinary Program in Health Sciences, Universidade Cruzeiro do Sul, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Debora Heller
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Studies in Dentistry, Universidade Cruzeiro Do Sul, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Department of Periodontology, School of Dentistry, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Cristian Núñez-Espinosa
- Escuela de Medicina, Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas, Chile
- Centro Asistencial Docente y de Investigación, Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas, Chile
- Interuniversity Center for Healthy Aging, Chilecito, Chile
| | - Dawit Albieiro Pinheiro Gonçalves
- Exercise Physiology Laboratory, School of Physical Education, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Danusa Dias Soares
- Exercise Physiology Laboratory, School of Physical Education, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Samuel Penna Wanner
- Exercise Physiology Laboratory, School of Physical Education, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Thiago Teixeira Mendes
- Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Education, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Rosa Maria Esteves Arantes
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
- Center for Newborn Screening and Genetics Diagnosis, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (NUPAD-FM/UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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Nikanorova AA, Barashkov NA, Pshennikova VG, Teryutin FM, Nakhodkin SS, Solovyev AV, Romanov GP, Burtseva TE, Fedorova SA. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Free Triiodothyronine (FT3) Levels in Humans Depending on Seasonal Air Temperature Changes: Is the Variation in FT3 Levels Related to Nonshivering Thermogenesis? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14052. [PMID: 37762355 PMCID: PMC10531421 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating normal development, growth, and metabolic function. However, the controversy surrounding seasonal changes in free triiodothyronine (FT3) levels remains unresolved. Therefore, the aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of variations in FT3 levels in relation to seasonal air temperatures in the context of current knowledge about its role in nonshivering thermogenesis. Ten eligible articles with a total of 336,755 participants were included in the meta-analysis. The studies were categorized into two groups based on the air temperature: "Cold winter", where the winter temperature fell below 0 °C, and "Warm winter", where the winter temperature was above 0 °C. The analysis revealed that in cold regions, FT3 levels decreased in winter compared to summer (I2 = 57%, p < 0.001), whereas in warm regions, FT3 levels increased during winter (I2 = 28%, p < 0.001). These findings suggest that seasonal variations in FT3 levels are likely to be influenced by the winter temperature. Considering the important role of the FT3 in the nonshivering thermogenesis process, we assume that this observed pattern is probably related to the differences in use of thyroid hormones in the brown adipose tissue during adaptive thermogenesis, which may depend on intensity of cold exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alena A. Nikanorova
- Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems, Yaroslavskogo 6/3, 677000 Yakutsk, Russia; (A.A.N.); (V.G.P.); (F.M.T.); (T.E.B.); (S.A.F.)
| | - Nikolay A. Barashkov
- Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems, Yaroslavskogo 6/3, 677000 Yakutsk, Russia; (A.A.N.); (V.G.P.); (F.M.T.); (T.E.B.); (S.A.F.)
| | - Vera G. Pshennikova
- Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems, Yaroslavskogo 6/3, 677000 Yakutsk, Russia; (A.A.N.); (V.G.P.); (F.M.T.); (T.E.B.); (S.A.F.)
| | - Fedor M. Teryutin
- Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems, Yaroslavskogo 6/3, 677000 Yakutsk, Russia; (A.A.N.); (V.G.P.); (F.M.T.); (T.E.B.); (S.A.F.)
| | - Sergey S. Nakhodkin
- M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University, Kulakovskogo 46, 677013 Yakutsk, Russia; (S.S.N.); (A.V.S.); (G.P.R.)
| | - Aisen V. Solovyev
- M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University, Kulakovskogo 46, 677013 Yakutsk, Russia; (S.S.N.); (A.V.S.); (G.P.R.)
| | - Georgii P. Romanov
- M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University, Kulakovskogo 46, 677013 Yakutsk, Russia; (S.S.N.); (A.V.S.); (G.P.R.)
| | - Tatiana E. Burtseva
- Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems, Yaroslavskogo 6/3, 677000 Yakutsk, Russia; (A.A.N.); (V.G.P.); (F.M.T.); (T.E.B.); (S.A.F.)
- M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University, Kulakovskogo 46, 677013 Yakutsk, Russia; (S.S.N.); (A.V.S.); (G.P.R.)
| | - Sardana A. Fedorova
- Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems, Yaroslavskogo 6/3, 677000 Yakutsk, Russia; (A.A.N.); (V.G.P.); (F.M.T.); (T.E.B.); (S.A.F.)
- M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University, Kulakovskogo 46, 677013 Yakutsk, Russia; (S.S.N.); (A.V.S.); (G.P.R.)
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Moraes MM, Mendes TT, Borges L, Marques AL, Núñez-Espinosa C, Gonçalves DAP, Simões CB, Vieira TS, Ladeira RVP, Lourenço TGB, Ribeiro DV, Hatanaka E, Heller D, Arantes RME. A 7-Week Summer Camp in Antarctica Induces Fluctuations on Human Oral Microbiome, Pro-Inflammatory Markers and Metabolic Hormones Profile. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11020339. [PMID: 36838304 PMCID: PMC9960157 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11020339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Antarctic camps pose psychophysiological challenges related to isolated, confined, and extreme (ICE) conditions, including meals composed of sealed food. ICE conditions can influence the microbiome and inflammatory responses. Seven expeditioners took part in a 7-week Antarctic summer camp (Nelson Island) and were evaluated at Pre-Camp (i.e., at the beginning of the ship travel), Camp-Initial (i.e., 4th and 5th day in camp), Camp-Middle (i.e., 19th-20th, and 33rd-34th days), Camp-Final (i.e., 45th-46th day), and at the Post-Camp (on the ship). At the Pre-Camp, Camp-Initial, and Camp-Final, we assessed microbiome and inflammatory markers. Catecholamines were accessed Pre- and Post-Camp. Heart rate variability (HRV), leptin, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), and thyroxine (T4) were accessed at all time points. Students' t-tests or repeated-measures analysis of variance (one or two-way ANOVA) followed by Student-Newman-Keuls (post hoc) were used for parametric analysis. Kruskal-Wallis test was applied for non-parametric analysis. Microbiome analysis showed a predominance of Pseudomonadota (34.01%), Bacillota (29.82%), and Bacteroidota (18.54%), followed by Actinomycetota (5.85%), and Fusobacteria (5.74%). Staying in a long-term Antarctic camp resulted in microbiome fluctuations with a reduction in Pseudomonadota-a "microbial signature" of disease. However, the pro-inflammatory marker leptin and IL-8 tended to increase, and the angiogenic factor VEGF was reduced during camp. These results suggest that distinct Antarctic natural environments and behavioral factors modulate oral microbiome and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele M. Moraes
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
- Center for Newborn Screening and Genetics Diagnosis, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, NUPAD-FM/UFMG, Belo Horizonte 30130-100, MG, Brazil
| | - Thiago T. Mendes
- Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Education, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador 40170-110, BA, Brazil
| | - Leandro Borges
- Interdisciplinary Program in Health Sciences, Universidade Cruzeiro do Sul, São Paulo 01506-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Alice L. Marques
- Post-Graduation Program in Social Sciences in Development, Culture and Society of the Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica 23890-000, RJ, Brazil
| | - Cristian Núñez-Espinosa
- School of Medicine, Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas 6200000, Chile
- Austral Integrative Neurophysiology Group, Centro Asistencial Docente y de Investigación, Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas 6200000, Chile
- Interuniversity Center for Healthy Aging, Punta Arenas 6200000, Chile
| | - Dawit A. P. Gonçalves
- Exercise Physiology Laboratory, School of Physical Education, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
- Sports Training Center, School of Physical Education, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
| | - Carolina B. Simões
- Exercise Physiology Laboratory, School of Physical Education, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
- Sports Training Center, School of Physical Education, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
| | - Tales S. Vieira
- Exercise Physiology Laboratory, School of Physical Education, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
| | - Roberto V. P. Ladeira
- Center for Newborn Screening and Genetics Diagnosis, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, NUPAD-FM/UFMG, Belo Horizonte 30130-100, MG, Brazil
| | - Talita G. B. Lourenço
- Oral Microbiology Laboratory, Institute of Microbiology Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil
| | - Danielle V. Ribeiro
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo 05652-900, SP, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Studies in Dentistry, Universidade Cruzeiro do Sul, São Paulo 430-0926, SP, Brazil
| | - Elaine Hatanaka
- Interdisciplinary Program in Health Sciences, Universidade Cruzeiro do Sul, São Paulo 01506-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Debora Heller
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo 05652-900, SP, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Studies in Dentistry, Universidade Cruzeiro do Sul, São Paulo 430-0926, SP, Brazil
- Department of Periodontology, School of Dentistry, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Rosa M. E. Arantes
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
- Center for Newborn Screening and Genetics Diagnosis, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, NUPAD-FM/UFMG, Belo Horizonte 30130-100, MG, Brazil
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-(31)-999037400
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Bellastella G, Maiorino MI, Scappaticcio L, De Bellis A, Mercadante S, Esposito K, Bellastella A. Chronothyroidology: Chronobiological Aspects in Thyroid Function and Diseases. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11050426. [PMID: 34068480 PMCID: PMC8151474 DOI: 10.3390/life11050426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronobiology is the scientific discipline which considers biological phenomena in relation to time, which assumes itself biological identity. Many physiological processes are cyclically regulated by intrinsic clocks and many pathological events show a circadian time-related occurrence. Even the pituitary–thyroid axis is under the control of a central clock, and the hormones of the pituitary–thyroid axis exhibit circadian, ultradian and circannual rhythmicity. This review, after describing briefly the essential principles of chronobiology, will be focused on the results of personal experiences and of other studies on this issue, paying particular attention to those regarding the thyroid implications, appearing in the literature as reviews, metanalyses, original and observational studies until 28 February 2021 and acquired from two databases (Scopus and PubMed). The first input to biological rhythms is given by a central clock located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), which dictates the timing from its hypothalamic site to satellite clocks that contribute in a hierarchical way to regulate the physiological rhythmicity. Disruption of the rhythmic organization can favor the onset of important disorders, including thyroid diseases. Several studies on the interrelationship between thyroid function and circadian rhythmicity demonstrated that thyroid dysfunctions may affect negatively circadian organization, disrupting TSH rhythm. Conversely, alterations of clock machinery may cause important perturbations at the cellular level, which may favor thyroid dysfunctions and also cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Bellastella
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (G.B.); (M.I.M.); (L.S.); (A.D.B.)
| | - Maria Ida Maiorino
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (G.B.); (M.I.M.); (L.S.); (A.D.B.)
| | - Lorenzo Scappaticcio
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (G.B.); (M.I.M.); (L.S.); (A.D.B.)
| | - Annamaria De Bellis
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (G.B.); (M.I.M.); (L.S.); (A.D.B.)
| | - Silvia Mercadante
- Diabetes Unit, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (S.M.); (K.E.)
| | - Katherine Esposito
- Diabetes Unit, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (S.M.); (K.E.)
| | - Antonio Bellastella
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Respiratory Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Palinkas LA, Suedfeld P. Psychosocial issues in isolated and confined extreme environments. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 126:413-429. [PMID: 33836214 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.03.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
PALINKAS, L.A., and P. SUEDFELD. Psychosocial Issues in Isolated and Confined Extreme Environments. NEUROSCI BIOBEHAV REV (1) XXX-XXX, 2020. Psychosocial elements of behavior and performance will significantly impact the outcomes of long duration missions in space, ranging from individual and team decrements to positive benefits associated with successful adaptation. This paper reviews our current understanding of the individual, interpersonal and organizational issues related to living and working in isolated and confined extreme (ICE) environments. Individual issues include changes in emotions and cognitive performance; seasonal syndromes linked to changes in the physical environment; and positive effects of adapting to ICE environments. Interpersonal issues include processes of crew cohesion, tension and conflict; interpersonal relations and social support; the impact of group diversity and leadership styles on small group dynamics; and crew-mission control interactions. Organizational issues include the influence of organizational culture and mission duration on individual and group performance, crew autonomy, and managerial requirements for long duration missions. Improved screening and selection, leadership, coping and interpersonal skills training, and organizational change are key elements to optimizing adjustment to the environment and preventing decrements during and after long duration missions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence A Palinkas
- Suzanne Dworak Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, 669 W. 34(th) Street, Los Angeles, CA, 90089-0411, USA.
| | - Peter Suedfeld
- Department of Psychology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence A. Palinkas
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of California, San Diego
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Hormonal, autonomic cardiac and mood states changes during an Antarctic expedition: From ship travel to camping in Snow Island. Physiol Behav 2020; 224:113069. [PMID: 32659395 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2020.113069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
We evaluated the influence of an Antarctic expedition, consisting of 26-day ship travel followed by 24-day camping in the Antarctic field during the summer season, on hormonal responses, autonomic cardiac control, and mood states in individuals that live in tropical regions. Data collection was carried out in 10 individuals on the 2nd, 16th, and 26th days aboard the ship (characterized by exposure to low-luminosity and temperature-controlled environments) and on the 4th, 11th, and 23rd days of camping in the Antarctic field (prolonged exposure to natural luminosity and cold environments). Morning samples of saliva (to determine testosterone and cortisol concentrations) and blood [to determine thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroxine (T4) concentrations] were obtained. Next, resting heart rate variability (HRV) was recorded, and the volunteers answered a mood questionnaire. Samples of saliva for measurement of melatonin concentration were obtained at night. At the end of ship travel, blood TSH and salivary melatonin increased by 15.6% and 72.3%, respectively, whereas salivary cortisol reduced by 37.1% compared to initial values and T4 reduced by 12.2% compared to 16th day. These hormonal changes occurred alongside increased depression score and biphasic changes in HRV parameters; for example, the RMSSD, a parasympathetic-related parameter, initially decreased by 47.8% and then returned towards baseline values by the end of the ship travel. In contrast, during the camp period, blood TSH and T4 reduced by 26.5% and 34.1%, respectively, and salivary cortisol increased by 72.1%, without concomitant changes in melatonin and HRV. Also, tension score transiently reduced and then increased towards the pre-camp score by the end of the field period. Testosterone remained unaltered throughout the expedition. In conclusion, ship travel and camping in Antarctica induced distinct neuroendocrine changes, cardiac autonomic regulation, and mood states. These specific changes most likely resulted from exposure to different natural luminosity, degrees of confinement, and ambient temperature in these environments.
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Mahwi TO, Abdulateef DS. Relation of Different Components of Climate with Human Pituitary-Thyroid Axis and FT3/FT4 Ratio: A Study on Euthyroid and SCH Subjects in Two Different Seasons. Int J Endocrinol 2019; 2019:2762978. [PMID: 30800161 PMCID: PMC6360063 DOI: 10.1155/2019/2762978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Various changes in thyroid hormones (TH) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level were observed in different seasons among euthyroid and hypothyroid subjects living in areas with an extreme temperature difference between summer and winter. OBJECTIVES This study aims at finding the effect of temperate climate on the seasonal variations of TSH and TH in euthyroid and subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) subjects and at evaluating if the test season has an effect on the number of subjects diagnosed as SCH. It basically focuses on the relation of different components of climate with TH and TSH. METHOD In a prospective study on 152 healthy (euthyroid) volunteers and 25 SCH subjects, the serum hormone levels (TSH, FT4, and FT3) were measured in both the summer and winter seasons and correlated with all the climate components using Pearson's correlation coefficient. The effect of duration of outdoor exposure on hormone levels was compared using a paired sample t-test (P < 0.05). RESULTS Small but statistically significant increased FT3 level and decreased FT4 level were observed during the winter season in euthyroid and SCH subjects, respectively. There was a significant negative correlation between FT3 and FT3/FT4 ratio with temperature and sunshine duration and a positive correlation with humidity and atmospheric pressure. A positive correlation was found between FT4 and sunshine duration. CONCLUSION The climate components contributed to the slight variance in hormone levels in different seasons, and the effect was mostly on peripheral conversion of FT4 to FT3 rather than the pituitary-thyroid axis leading to slightly higher FT3 in winter. Seasonal variation does not affect the diagnosis of SCH cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taha O. Mahwi
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Sulaimani, Sulaymaniyah 46001, Iraq
| | - Darya S. Abdulateef
- Physiology Department, College of Medicine, University of Sulaimani, Sulaymaniyah 46001, Iraq
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Gullo D, Latina A, Frasca F, Squatrito S, Belfiore A, Vigneri R. Seasonal variations in TSH serum levels in athyreotic patients under L-thyroxine replacement monotherapy. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2017; 87:207-215. [PMID: 28398655 DOI: 10.1111/cen.13351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2016] [Revised: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 04/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whether serum TSH undergoes seasonal fluctuations in euthyroid and hypothyroid residents of temperate climates is controversial. METHODS Monthly TSH and thyroid hormone levels were cross-sectionally analysed in a large cohort of euthyroid subjects (n=11 806) and L-thyroxine (L-T4)-treated athyreotic patients (n=3 934). Moreover, in a small group (n=119) of athyreotic patients treated with an unchanged dosage of L-T4 monotherapy, hormones were measured both in the coldest and in the hottest seasons of the same year (longitudinal study). RESULTS No seasonal hormone change was observed in the euthyroid subjects except for a small FT3 increase in winter (+2.9%, P<.001). In contrast, the L-T4-treated athyreotic patients had significantly higher serum TSH values in the cold season when the FT4 values were significantly lower. The differences were more notable in the longitudinal series (TSH, 0.80 vs. 0.20 mU/L and FT4, 16.3 vs. 17.8 pmol/L in December-March vs. June-September, respectively). In these patients also serum FT3 values significantly decreased in winter (in the longitudinal series, 3.80 in winter vs 4.07 pmol/L in summer). Regression analysis showed that in athyreotic subjects, a greater FT4 change is required to obtain a TSH change similar to that of euthyroid controls and that this effect is more pronounced in the summer. CONCLUSION Athyreotic patients undergoing L-T4 monotherapy have abnormal seasonal variations in TSH. These changes are secondary to the FT4 and FT3 serum decreases in winter, which occur in spite of the constant treatment. The underlying mechanisms are unclear, but in some cases, these changes may be clinically relevant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damiano Gullo
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Garibaldi-Nesima Medical Center, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Adele Latina
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Garibaldi-Nesima Medical Center, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Francesco Frasca
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Garibaldi-Nesima Medical Center, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Squatrito
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Garibaldi-Nesima Medical Center, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonino Belfiore
- Endocrine Unit, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Riccardo Vigneri
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Garibaldi-Nesima Medical Center, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- CNR, Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, Catania, Italy
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11
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Xu C, Zhu G, Xue Q, Zhang S, Du G, Xi Y, Palinkas LA. Effect of the Antarctic environment on hormone levels and mood of Chinese expeditioners. Int J Circumpolar Health 2016; 62:255-67. [PMID: 14594200 DOI: 10.3402/ijch.v62i3.17562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Serum thyroid hormones, plasma catecholamines and mood were examined in 10 male members of the 16th Chinese Antarctic Expedition who spent the 2000 austral winter at Great Wall Station. STUDY DESIGN Samples were taken prior to deployment to Antarctica (December, 1999) and upon return to China 54 weeks later (December, 2000). The expeditioners also completed the Profile of Mood States (POMS) each month over an 8-month period (April through November, 2000). RESULTS There was a significant decrease in levels of serum total thyroxine (p < 0.01) and plasma epinephrine (p < 0.05), and a significant increase in serum TSH (p < 0.01). With the exception of a significant decline in level of vigor (p = 0.008), there were no significant changes in mood throughout the expedition. Low levels of pre- and post-deployment total triiodothyronine and high levels of TSH were significantly associated with high levels of tension-anxiety, depression, anger, confusion, and total mood disturbance at the beginning and end of winter. High levels of TSH were also significantly associated with high levels of fatigue (p < 0.001), while low levels of total thyroxine were significantly associated with high levels of tension-anxiety (p < 0.001), depression (p < 0.05), and total mood disturbance (p < 0.05). Low levels of dopamine were significantly associated with high levels of tension-anxiety (p < 0.05). An increase in anger during the austral winter was significantly associated with an increase in adrenaline during the expedition (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION The increase in TSH, and its association with mood, is consistent with the polar T3 syndrome, while the absence of changes in free triiodothyronine and thyroxine may reflect characteristics of the environment, or racial/ethnic differences in psychophysiological, or socio-cultural adaptation to circumpolar environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengli Xu
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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12
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Palinkas LA, Reedy KR, Smith M, Anghel M, Steel GD, Reeves D, Shurtleff D, Case HS, Do NV, Reed HL. Psychoneuroendocrine effects of combined thyroxine and triiodothyronine versus tyrosine during prolonged Antarctic residence. Int J Circumpolar Health 2016. [DOI: 10.3402/ijch.v66i5.18312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Palinkas LA, Glogower F, Dembert M, Hansen K, Smullen R. Incidence of psychiatric disorders after extended residence in Antarctica. Int J Circumpolar Health 2016; 63:157-68. [PMID: 15253482 DOI: 10.3402/ijch.v63i2.17702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The incidence of psychiatric disorders and depressive symptoms was examined in a cohort of American men and women who spent an austral winter at two different research stations in Antarctica to determine whether extended residence of nonindigenous inhabitants in a polar region is associated with psychiatric morbidity. STUDY DESIGN Debriefings interviews with 220 men and 93 women were conducted by 3 psychiatrists and 1 clinical psychologist at McMurdo Station and South Pole Station at the end of the austral winter between 1994 and 1997. Crewmembers were assigned a DSM-IV diagnosis if they satisfied diagnostic criteria. Debriefed crewmembers also completed the Structured Interview Guide for the Hamilton Depression Inventory-Seasonal Affective Disorders version (SIGH-SAD). RESULTS Thirty-nine (12.5%) crewmembers presented with symptoms that met the criteria for one or more DSM-IV disorders. After weighting the prevalence to account for the low participation rate of civilian personnel, the incidence of DSM-IV disorders was 5.2%. Mood disorders were the most common diagnoses, accounting for 30.2% of all diagnoses, followed by adjustment disorders (27.9%), sleep-related disorders (20.9%), personality disorders (11.6%), and substance-related disorders (9.3%). Depressive symptoms as measured by the SAD-SIGH were significantly associated with female gender, military occupation, station, year of expedition, and DSM-IV diagnosis. CONCLUSION Differences in the distribution of symptoms and diagnoses by demographic and expedition characteristics suggests that the social environment may be a more powerful determinant than the physical environment of psychiatric disorders in a polar region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence A Palinkas
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla 92093-0807, USA.
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Chen N, Wu Q, Li H, Zhang T, Xu C. Different adaptations of Chinese winter-over expeditioners during prolonged Antarctic and sub-Antarctic residence. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2016; 60:737-747. [PMID: 26842369 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-015-1069-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2015] [Revised: 09/21/2015] [Accepted: 09/21/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Prolonged residence in Antarctica is characterized by exposure to isolated, confined, and extreme (ICE) environment. Winter-over expeditioners at research stations often exhibit a complex of psychophysiological symptoms, which varied by stations and sociocultural backgrounds. To understand the different patterns of psychophysiological responses provoked by environmental stress, we conducted a longitudinal assessment of mood and endocrine function in two groups of Chinese expeditioners who were deployed to sub-Antarctic (Great Wall Station, 62°S, N = 12) and Antarctic (Zhongshan Station, 66°S, N = 16) from December 2003 to 2005. Measures of mood, thyroid function, the levels of plasma catecholamine, and circulating interleukins were obtained at departure from China, mid-winter (Antarctica), end of winter (Antarctica), and return to China, respectively. The Zhongshan Station crew experienced significant increases in fatigue, anger, tension, confusion, and decrease in free thyroxine (FT4), norepinephrine (NE), and epinephrine (E) during the winter, increase in thyrotropin (TSH) and total triiodothyronine (TT3) when returning, whereas their counterparts at Great Wall Station only experienced increased TT3 after deployment. Moreover, compared with the Great Wall Station crew, the Zhongshan Station crew exhibited greater increase in anger, greater decrease in FT4, total thyroxine (TT4), NE and E over the winter, and greater increase in TSH when returning. Chinese expeditioners who lived and worked at the Antarctic station and the sub-Antarctic station for over a year showed different change patterns in mood and endocrine hormones. Negative mood and endocrine dysfunction were positively associated with the severity of environment. The study is a supplement to scientific knowledge on psychophysiological variation under ICE environment, which has certain applied value for the development of preventive countermeasures or interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Chen
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Quan Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing, 100035, China
| | - Hao Li
- Beijing Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Chengli Xu
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China.
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Zimmer M, Cabral JCCR, Borges FC, Côco KG, Hameister BDR. Psychological changes arising from an Antarctic stay: systematic overview. ESTUDOS DE PSICOLOGIA (CAMPINAS) 2013. [DOI: 10.1590/s0103-166x2013000300011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-term stays in extreme environments, such as Polar Regions, may cause significant changes in the health and well-being of individuals. A systematic overview aimed to map studies about the psychological effects on Antarctic expeditioners. The reviewed data were categorized and divided into two thematic axes: Negative Effects, resulting from harmful psychophysiological variations caused by exposure to the polar stressors, which may present seasonal symptom patterns, altering cognitive performance, mood and interpersonal relationships; and Positive Effects, such as salutogenic results arising from successful adaption to environmental adversities. Due to the great deal of evidence, it is suggested that protection factors should be promoted through preventive approaches, such as psychological training and support in order to reduce symptoms and generate satisfactory adaptation to Antarctica.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilene Zimmer
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Brasil; Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Brasil
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16
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Kanikowska D, Sato M, Iwase S, Shimizu Y, Nishimura N, Inukai Y, Sugenoya J. Effects of living at two ambient temperatures on 24-h blood pressure and neuroendocrine function among obese and non-obese humans: a pilot study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2013; 57:475-81. [PMID: 22820727 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-012-0574-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2012] [Revised: 06/26/2012] [Accepted: 07/01/2012] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The effects of environmental temperature on blood pressure and hormones in obese subjects in Japan were compared in two seasons: summer vs winter. Five obese (BMI, 32 ± 5 kg/m(2)) and five non-obese (BMI, 23 ±3 kg/m(2)) men participated in this experiment at latitude 35°10' N and longitude 136°57.9' E. The average environmental temperature was 29 ± 1 °C in summer and 3 ± 1 °C in winter. Blood samples were analyzed for leptin, ghrelin, catecholamines, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (fT4), free triiodothyronine (fT3), total cholesterol, triglycerides, insulin and glucose. Blood pressure was measured over the course of 24 h in summer and winter. A Japanese version of the Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaire was also administered each season. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures in obese men were significantly higher in winter (lower environmental temperatures) than in summer (higher environmental temperatures). Noradrenaline and dopamine concentrations were also significantly higher at lower environmental temperatures in obese subjects, but ghrelin, TSH, fT3, fT4, insulin and glucose were not significantly different in summer and winter between obese and non-obese subjects. Leptin, total cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations were significantly higher in winter in obese than non-obese men. Results from the POMS questionnaire showed a significant rise in Confusion at lower environmental temperatures (winter) in obese subjects. In this pilot study, increased blood pressure may have been due to increased secretion of noradrenaline in obese men in winter, and the results suggest that blood pressure control in obese men is particularly important in winter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominika Kanikowska
- Department of Physiology, Aichi Medical University School of Medicine, Nagakute, Aichi 480-1195, Japan.
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Arendt J. Biological rhythms during residence in polar regions. Chronobiol Int 2012; 29:379-94. [PMID: 22497433 PMCID: PMC3793275 DOI: 10.3109/07420528.2012.668997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2011] [Revised: 12/28/2011] [Accepted: 01/22/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
At Arctic and Antarctic latitudes, personnel are deprived of natural sunlight in winter and have continuous daylight in summer: light of sufficient intensity and suitable spectral composition is the main factor that maintains the 24-h period of human circadian rhythms. Thus, the status of the circadian system is of interest. Moreover, the relatively controlled artificial light conditions in winter are conducive to experimentation with different types of light treatment. The hormone melatonin and/or its metabolite 6-sulfatoxymelatonin (aMT6s) provide probably the best index of circadian (and seasonal) timing. A frequent observation has been a delay of the circadian system in winter. A skeleton photoperiod (2 × 1-h, bright white light, morning and evening) can restore summer timing. A single 1-h pulse of light in the morning may be sufficient. A few people desynchronize from the 24-h day (free-run) and show their intrinsic circadian period, usually >24 h. With regard to general health in polar regions, intermittent reports describe abnormalities in various physiological processes from the point of view of daily and seasonal rhythms, but positive health outcomes are also published. True winter depression (SAD) appears to be rare, although subsyndromal SAD is reported. Probably of most concern are the numerous reports of sleep problems. These have prompted investigations of the underlying mechanisms and treatment interventions. A delay of the circadian system with "normal" working hours implies sleep is attempted at a suboptimal phase. Decrements in sleep efficiency, latency, duration, and quality are also seen in winter. Increasing the intensity of ambient light exposure throughout the day advanced circadian phase and was associated with benefits for sleep: blue-enriched light was slightly more effective than standard white light. Effects on performance remain to be fully investigated. At 75°S, base personnel adapt the circadian system to night work within a week, in contrast to temperate zones where complete adaptation rarely occurs. A similar situation occurs on high-latitude North Sea oil installations, especially when working 18:00-06:00 h. Lack of conflicting light exposure (and "social obligations") is the probable explanation. Many have problems returning to day work, showing circadian desynchrony. Timed light treatment again has helped to restore normal phase/sleep in a small number of people. Postprandial response to meals is compromised during periods of desynchrony with evidence of insulin resistance and elevated triglycerides, risk factors for heart disease. Only small numbers of subjects have been studied intensively in polar regions; however, these observations suggest that suboptimal light conditions are deleterious to health. They apply equally to people living in temperate zones with insufficient light exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josephine Arendt
- Centre for Chronobiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, UK.
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18
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Palinkas LA, Reedy KR, Shepanek M, Reeves D, Samuel Case H, Van Do N, Lester Reed H. A randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial of the effectiveness of thyroxine and triiodothyronine and short-term exposure to bright light in prevention of decrements in cognitive performance and mood during prolonged Antarctic residence. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2010; 72:543-50. [PMID: 19650782 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2265.2009.03669.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We examined the effects of a combined levothyroxine/liothyronine supplement and exposure to bright (10,000 lux) light in euthyroid men and women who spent the austral summer (n = 43) and/or winter (n = 42) in Antarctica. METHODS Subjects were randomized to receive 64 nmol of levothyroxine and 16 nmol of liothyronine supplement or a placebo capsule for 93.2 +/- 3.0 days in summer and/or 149.5 +/- 2.2 days in winter. Subjects were further randomized to receive 10,000 lux bright white light or 50 lux dim red light for 14 days at the end of summer and/or winter. Cognitive performance and mood were assessed using the Automatic Neuropsychological Assessment Metric - Isolated and Confined Environments. RESULTS In winter, bright light exposure was associated with a significantly greater reduction in TSH and anger (P < 0.05), a significantly greater increase in fT(3) (P < 0.05), and a significantly smaller increase in depressive symptoms (P < 0.001), when compared with dim light. The T4/T3 supplement also led to a significantly greater reduction in TSH (P < 0.05), but a greater reduction in cognitive task efficiency (P < 0.05) as well, when compared with placebo. CONCLUSION Administration of bright light leads to a significant reduction in serum TSH and prevents increases in anger and depressive symptoms in winter. However, these associations were not observed in summer, suggesting a seasonal influence of photoperiod over temperature upon this intervention in the polar environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence A Palinkas
- School of Social Work and Departments of Anthropology and Preventive Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089-0411, USA.
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Goel N, Grasso DJ. Olfactory Discrimination and Transient Mood Change in Young Men and Women: Variation by Season, Mood State, and Time of Day. Chronobiol Int 2009; 21:691-719. [PMID: 15470963 DOI: 10.1081/cbi-200025989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Odor performance varies by clinical state and gender, though little is known about its variation by season or time of day. Many odors, including lavender, induce transient mood changes. This study explored discrimination differences between various lavender oil blends and their effects on transient mood in the morning and evening in depressed and nondepressed adults. We also determined seasonal influences on these measures. A total of 169 subjects, 98 women and 71 men (mean age +/- SD, 19.3 +/- 1.6 y) participated, with different subjects studied at different times of the year. The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) classified subjects as depressed (score > or =10; N= 57) or nondepressed (score <10; N= 112). In the discrimination test, subjects compared pairs of two different lavender oil blends or a control. Transient change in mood was assessed by the Profile of Mood States (POMS) after each trial of five lavender blends interspersed by three control odors. Tests were conducted in the morning (08:00-10:00 h) and evening (18:00-20:00h). In all subjects, discrimination was significantly better for some odor pairs than for others, thus demonstrating test specificity. Discrimination was better overall in the fall than winter/spring and better in depressed than nondepressed subjects for specific odor pairs. No significant gender or time-of-day differences in discriminability were detected. There were, however, significant group differences in transient mood profiles. Current depressed state affected mood response, with lavender increasing anger in depressed subjects only. In addition, depressed subjects and men, whether or not depressed, exhibited diurnal mood variation, with better mood in the evening; the former group also showed more evening energy. All subjects were more confused in the morning than evening. Season also affected transient mood; winter/spring-tested subjects reported more vigor than fall-tested subjects. In addition, summer-tested subjects showed more tension in the morning, whereas fall-tested subjects showed the opposite pattern in the evening. In all subjects, lavender increased fatigue, tension, confusion, and total mood disturbance, and it decreased vigor. The study showed that both chronobiological (seasonal and time-of-day) and clinical factors modify discrimination and mood response to odors. Brief lavender odor presentation may serve as a nonphotic method for altering mood in young depressed and nondepressed adults particularly during the fall, a time of heightened discriminability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namni Goel
- Department of Psychology, 207 High St., Judd Hall, Wesleyan University, Middletown, CT 06459, USA.
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20
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Abstract
Polar expeditions include treks and stays at summer camps or year-round research stations. People on such expeditions generally undergo psychological changes resulting from exposure to long periods of isolation and confinement, and the extreme physical environment. Symptoms include disturbed sleep, impaired cognitive ability, negative affect, and interpersonal tension and conflict. Seasonal occurrence of these symptoms suggests the existence of three overlapping syndromes: the winter-over syndrome, the polar T3 syndrome, and subsyndromal seasonal affective disorder. About 5% of people on expeditions meet DSM-IV or ICD criteria for psychiatric disorders. However, they also experience positive or so-called salutogenic outcomes resulting from successfully coping with stress and enhanced self-sufficiency, improved health, and personal growth. Prevention of pathogenic psychological outcomes is best accomplished by psychological and psychiatric screening procedures to select out unsuitable candidates, and by providing access to psychological support, including telephone counselling. Promotion of salutogenic experiences is best accomplished by screening for suitable personality traits, and training participants in individual coping strategies, group interaction, and team leadership.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence A Palinkas
- School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA.
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Palinkas LA, Reedy KR, Shepanek M, Smith M, Anghel M, Steel GD, Reeves D, Case HS, Do NV, Reed HL. Environmental influences on hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid function and behavior in Antarctica. Physiol Behav 2007; 92:790-9. [PMID: 17628620 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2007.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2006] [Revised: 04/02/2007] [Accepted: 06/06/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
We examined the physiological and psychological status of men and women who spent the summer (n=100) and/or winter (n=85) seasons in Antarctica at McMurdo (latitude 78.48 S, elevation 12 m) and South Pole (latitude 90 S, elevation 3880 m) stations to determine whether there were any significant differences by severity of the stations' physical environment. Physiological measures (body mass index, blood pressure, heart rate, tympanic temperature), serum measures of thyroid hormones, cortisol, and lipids and plasma catecholamines were obtained at predeployment (Sep-Oct) and the beginning of the summer (November) and winter (Mar-Apr) seasons. Cognitive performance and mood were assessed using the Automatic Neuropsychological Assessment Metric - Isolated and Confined Environments (ANAM-ICE), a computerized test battery. South Pole residents had a lower body mass index (p<0.05) and body temperature (p<0.01) and higher levels of plasma norepinephrine (p<0.05) in summer and winter than McMurdo residents. Upon deployment from the United States and during the summer, South Pole residents experienced significantly higher thyroid hormone values (free and total T(3) and T(4)) (p<0.01) than McMurdo residents; in summer they also experienced lower levels of triglycerides (p<0.01) cortisol (p<0.05) and LDL (p<0.05). In winter, South Pole residents also experienced a 39% decrease in serum TSH compared with a 31.9% increase in McMurdo (p<0.05). South Pole residents also were significantly more accurate (p<0.05) and efficient (p<0.01) in performance of complex cognitive tasks in summer and winter. Higher thyroid hormone levels, combined with lower BMI and body temperature, may reflect increased metabolic and physiological responses to colder temperatures and/or higher altitude at South Pole with no apparent adverse effect on mood and cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence A Palinkas
- School of Social Work, University of Southern California, 669 W. 34th Street, Los Angeles CA, 90089-0411, USA.
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22
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Mäkinen TM. Human cold exposure, adaptation, and performance in high latitude environments. Am J Hum Biol 2007; 19:155-64. [PMID: 17286263 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.20627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cold exposure is present to significant amounts in the everyday occupational and leisure time activities of circumpolar residents. A cross-sectional population study demonstrated that Finns reported being exposed to cold on average 4% of their total time. Factors modifying cold exposure are: age, gender, employment, education, health, and amount of physical exercise. Several symptoms and complaints are associated with wintertime cold exposure and start to appear more commonly when temperatures decrease below -10 degrees C. Urban circumpolar people do not evidently demonstrate cold acclimatization responses in terms of changes in thermoregulation, probably due to behavioral factors (adequate protective clothing, short cold exposures, and high housing temperatures). With regard to performance, we observed that moderate cold exposure, which may occur in everyday life, affects cognition negatively through the mechanisms of distraction and both positively and negatively through the mechanism of arousal (increased vigilance). It seems that especially simple cognitive tasks are adversely affected by cold, while in more complex tasks performance may even improve in mild or moderate cold. Repeated, short cold exposures in the laboratory, causing cold habituation responses, do not markedly improve neuromuscular or cognitive performance. The article discusses the functional significance of cold exposure, adaptation, and the specific environmental conditions and physiological mechanisms that affect behavior and performance in high latitude environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiina M Mäkinen
- Centre for Arctic Medicine, Thule Institute, Department of Public Health Sciences and General Practice, FIN-90014, University of Oulu, Finland.
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Bardwell WA, Ensign WY, Mills PJ. Negative mood endures after completion of high-altitude military training. Ann Behav Med 2005; 29:64-9. [PMID: 15677302 DOI: 10.1207/s15324796abm2901_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Associations between physical and emotional stress and negative mood states have been documented in a variety of populations. In military personnel, more physical symptoms and decrements in ability to perform critical tasks have been shown to accompany such stress-induced negative mood. Most research in this area has focused on immediate effects of stress on mood. PURPOSE We wondered what immediate mood effects strenuous training would have on Marines, what mood effects would endure 30 and 90 days after completion of training, and how mood scores would compare with normative data. METHODS Sixty male Marines (M age = 19 years, range = 18-28) completed the Profile of Mood States (POMS) at multiple time points before and after participating in a 30-day, cold weather, high-altitude field training exercise. Anthropometric measurements were taken at the same time points. RESULTS The Marines reported significant increases in POMS scores from baseline to completion of training, most of which endured up to 90 days. The anger and fatigue scores reported by the Marines were comparable to adult male psychiatric outpatient norms. CONCLUSIONS Rigorous training in challenging environments may result in enduring negative moods that approach levels of clinical significance and may have implications for readiness for duty and performance of critical tasks. Behavioral medicine interventions may be helpful in military populations to reduce the impact of negative mood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wayne A Bardwell
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
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Palinkas LA. The psychology of isolated and confined environments. Understanding human behavior in Antarctica. AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGIST 2003; 58:353-63. [PMID: 12971084 DOI: 10.1037/0003-066x.58.5.353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Psychosocial adaptation to isolated and confined environments exhibits 4 distinct characteristics. First, it is seasonal: Variations in mood are associated with the altered diurnal cycle and psychological segmentation of the mission. Second, it is situational: Concurrent measures of personality, interpersonal needs, and coping styles are better predictors of mood and performance than are predeployment measures. Third, it is social: Members of expeditions with low social coherence report significantly more depression, anxiety, and anger than individuals belonging to expeditions with high social coherence. Fourth, it is salutogenic: Depressed mood is inversely associated with the severity of the physical environment of the station, and the winter-over experience is associated with reduced subsequent rates of hospital admissions, suggesting positive benefits for individuals seeking challenging experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence A Palinkas
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093-0807, USA.
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