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Erbay Ozdede E, Zengin H, Tiryaki O, Cinar N. Motherhood experiences of nurses receiving postgraduate education: A phenomenological research study. NURSE EDUCATION TODAY 2024; 139:106227. [PMID: 38696885 DOI: 10.1016/j.nedt.2024.106227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Trying to juggle multiple roles and responsibilities as a student, nurse, and mother can be challenging due to pressures from overlapping time management. This study was conducted to explore the experiences of graduate students who work as nurses and are mothers. METHODS The qualitative phenomenological data for this study were gathered from nurses at a training and research hospital between August and November 2022, utilizing face-to-face interviews. The study cohort comprised twelve nurses aged 28 to 48, all actively engaged in postgraduate education. Data were collected using a descriptive information form and semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was executed through inductive coding, facilitated by the Max Qualitative Data Analysis (MAXQDA) Analytics Pro2022 software. RESULTS Four central themes were developed: "Experiences During the Breastfeeding Process," "Positive Effects," "Encountered Challenges," and "Expectations." CONCLUSIONS The findings underscored that nurses who are mothers and pursuing postgraduate education encounter difficulties throughout their academic pursuits, notably attributed to working conditions and professional cultural values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elif Erbay Ozdede
- Department of Pediatric Nursing, Bilecik Seyh Edebali University, Turkey.
| | - Hamide Zengin
- Department of Pediatric Nursing, Eskisehir Osmangazi University, Turkey.
| | - Oznur Tiryaki
- Department of Midwifery, Sakarya University, Turkey.
| | - Nursan Cinar
- Department of Pediatric Nursing, Sakarya University, Turkey.
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2
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Ma C. The academic stress and subjective well-being of graduate nursing students: The mediating role of resilience. J Adv Nurs 2023. [PMID: 36876725 DOI: 10.1111/jan.15619] [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: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
AIM To investigate the levels of subjective well-being in graduate nursing students, explore the impact of academic stress and resilience on subjective well-being, and examine the mediation effect of resilience on the relationship between academic stress and subjective well-being among graduate nursing students. BACKGROUND Few studies explore the impact of academic stress and resilience on subjective well-being among graduate nursing students. Understanding the status of subjective well-being and associated factors in graduate nursing students will enable the development of tailored interventions to improve their well-being and academic achievements during graduation education. DESIGN A cross-sectional design. METHODS Graduate nursing students were recruited by social media between April 2021 and October 2021, in China. Subjective well-being was measured using the General Well-Being Schedule, resilience by the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, and academic stress through the Questionnaire of Assessing Academic Stress for graduate nursing students. Structural equation modelling was used to test the relationship among academic stress, resilience and subjective well-being. FINDINGS The mean score of subjective well-being for graduate nursing students was 76.37. The proposed model revealed a satisfied fit with the data. Academic stress and resilience were significantly related to subjective well-being in graduate nursing students. Resilience partially mediated the relationship between academic stress and subjective well-being, and the mediation effect accounted for 20.9% of the total effect of academic stress on the subjective well-being. CONCLUSION Academic stress and resilience affected subjective well-being in graduate nursing students, while resilience partially mediated the relationship between academic stress and the subjective well-being. NO PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION This study did not involve patients, service users, caregivers or members of the public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunhua Ma
- School of Nursing, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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3
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Quynh Phan AN. “And I surrender to maternity”: a poetic autoethnographic inquiry into juggling roles of a doctoral student mother during the pandemic. JOURNAL OF POETRY THERAPY 2023. [DOI: 10.1080/08893675.2022.2162198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anh Ngoc Quynh Phan
- Faculty of Education and Social Work, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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4
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Concerto C, Rodolico A, La Rosa VL, Aiello B, Martinez M, Stuto S, Infortuna C, Fusar-Poli L, Signorelli MS, Commodari E, Battaglia F, Aguglia E. Flourishing or Languishing? Predictors of Positive Mental Health in Medical Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15814. [PMID: 36497895 PMCID: PMC9736882 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192315814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, medical students were burdened with high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. The objective of the present study was to investigate predictors of positive mental health among medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic. We conducted an online survey from September 2021 to March 2022. We applied the snowball recruitment technique involving medical students from the University of Catania, Italy. We administered, anonymously, a questionnaire about demographic characteristics, the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21), the Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris and San Diego Autoquestionnaire (TEMPS-A), and the short form of the Mental Health Continuum (MHC-SF). Participants showed moderate anxiety, depression, and stress levels, and more than half had positive mental health status overall. This finding was inversely related to age, depression severity, cyclothymic, and depressive temperaments. Our results showed that medical students with depressive and cyclothymic temperaments were more at risk of worsening mental health status during the pandemic. Our findings may allow for further developments about the impact of personological characteristics on students' mental health to enable more efficient support for the most vulnerable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Concerto
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Alessandro Rodolico
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | | | - Barbara Aiello
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Miriam Martinez
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Stuto
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Carmenrita Infortuna
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences, Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98121 Messina, Italy
| | - Laura Fusar-Poli
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Salvina Signorelli
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Elena Commodari
- Department of Educational Sciences, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Fortunato Battaglia
- Department of Medical Sciences, Neurology, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA
| | - Eugenio Aguglia
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
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5
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Redondo-Flórez L, Ramos-Campo DJ, Clemente-Suárez VJ. Relationship between Physical Fitness and Academic Performance in University Students. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14750. [PMID: 36429470 PMCID: PMC9690464 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192214750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Several studies involving students have been developed with the objective to analyse the influence of different factors on academic performance. Nevertheless, all these studies were focused on stress and sympathetic modulation response instead of contemplating other physiological parameters that may affect academic performance. The aim of the present study was to analyse body composition, cardiovascular, sleep habits and physical activity factors related to the academic performance of university students. Two hundred and sixty-one students with bachelor's degrees in physical activity and sports science participated in the present study (age: 22.49 ± 3.84 years; weight: 73.94 ± 11.4 kg; height: 176.28 ± 7.68 cm; 87.7% males). Participants were divided into two groups according to their academic performance: low academic performance group (LAPG) and high academic performance group (HAPG). Body composition, blood pressure, physical activity and sleep habits were measured, and maximum oxygen uptake was estimated by the Cooper's 12 min run test. The results show that students with a high academic performance presented a higher VO2 max than the LAPG (LAPG = 40.32 ± 6.07; HAPG = 47.91 ± 6.89 mL/kg/min; p < 0.001), as well as lower diastolic blood pressure (LAPG = 72.44 ± 14.27; HAPG = 67.48 ± 13.50 mmHg; p < 0.01) and insomnia levels caused by breathing problems (LAPG = 0.37 ± 0.8; HAPG = 0.13 ± 0.42 a.u.; p = 0.046). Therefore, we found a relevant association between academic performance and VO2 max, diastolic blood pressure, and insomnia caused by breathing problems. These results highlight the importance of applying different programmes that may improve these factors, especially those related to physical activity and sleep habits in order to improve academic achievement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Domingo Jesús Ramos-Campo
- Department of Health and Human Performance, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Martin Fierro Street, s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Jiang C, Zheng S, Chen T, Li W, Zhang C, Gu S, Ren H, Huanhuan, Song J, Zhang Z. Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Improves Depression-like Behavior in Rats by Promoting Neural Stem Cell Proliferation and Differentiation. Neuroscience 2022:S0306-4522(22)00467-5. [PMID: 36116556 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2022.09.013] [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: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a novel non-invasive neuromodulation technique with neuroprotective properties and is used to treat depression. However, the underlying mechanism of action remains unclear. In this study, we examined the possible mechanism mediating the antidepressant effect of rTMS using animal experiments. Specific pathogen-free rats were treated with rTMS after exposure to social isolation combined with chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS). After four weeks of CUMS, the rats exhibited a significant decrease in spatial working memory assessed using open-field testing, a general loss of interest assessed with the sucrose preference test, and a significant reduction in spatial recognition memory ability assessed using the Y-maze. These behavioral deficits were accompanied by decreased numbers of astrocytes in the hippocampus, decreased expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), increased numbers of neural stem cells (NSCs), and increased expression of nestin protein. These results indicated that neuron damage occurred in the depression-like rats. After rTMS intervention, the depression-like behavior was alleviated significantly, and the numbers of NSCs and astrocytes, as well as the expression of GFAP and nestin proteins, returned to normal levels. Overall, it is likely that attenuation of NSC proliferation and differentiation into astrocytes produced a neuroprotective effect on hippocampal neurons, which might partly explain the mechanism by which rTMS alleviates depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cuihong Jiang
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453002, China
| | - Shuang Zheng
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453002, China
| | - Tengfei Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453002, China; Henan Key Lab of Biological Psychiatry, Xinxiang, Henan 453002, China
| | - Wenqiang Li
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453002, China; Henan Key Lab of Biological Psychiatry, Xinxiang, Henan 453002, China
| | - Chencheng Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Functional Neurosurgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shina Gu
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Weihui, Henan 453100, China
| | - Huicong Ren
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453002, China
| | - Huanhuan
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453002, China
| | - Jinggui Song
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453002, China.
| | - Zhaohui Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453002, China; Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Weihui, Henan 453100, China.
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Optimal peripheral nerve stimulation intensity for paired associative stimulation with high-frequency peripheral component in healthy subjects. Sci Rep 2022; 12:12466. [PMID: 35864177 PMCID: PMC9304330 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-16811-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Paired associative stimulation (PAS) with high-frequency peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS), called “high-PAS”, induces motor-evoked potential (MEP) potentiation in healthy subjects and improves muscle activity and independence in incomplete spinal cord injury patients. Data on optimal PNS intensity in PAS are scarce. In a high-PAS protocol, PNS intensity is defined as “minimal intensity required to produce F-responses”. We sought to further refine this definition and to investigate how PNS intensity affects PAS outcome. Two experiments were performed on 10 healthy subjects where MEP amplitude change was measured 0, 30, and 60 min after PAS. In the first experiment, the intensity required to achieve 7/10 persistence of F-responses was used to define PNS intensity level. In the second experiment, we used the intensity required to achieve 1/10 persistence (“baseline”). In addition, we applied this intensity at + 25%, − 25%, and − 50% levels. In the first experiment, PAS did not produce significant MEP potentiation. In the second experiment, PAS produced statistically significant MEP potentiation, with PNS intensity of “baseline” and “baseline − 25%” levels but not at + 25% or − 50% levels. In conclusion, for PAS utilizing high-frequency PNS, the intensity required to achieve 1/10 F-response persistence or the intensity 25% lower produces significant MEP potentiation in healthy subjects.
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Infortuna C, Gualano F, Freedberg D, Patel SP, Sheikh AM, Muscatello MRA, Bruno A, Mento C, Chusid E, Han Z, Thomas FP, Battaglia F. Motor Cortex Response to Pleasant Odor Perception and Imagery: The Differential Role of Personality Dimensions and Imagery Ability. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:943469. [PMID: 35903786 PMCID: PMC9314567 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.943469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Neuroimaging studies have shown a complex pattern of brain activation during perception of a pleasant odor and during its olfactory imagery. To date, little is known regarding changes in motor cortex excitability during these tasks. Bergamot essential oil (BEO) is extensively used in perfumes and cosmetics for its pleasantness. Therefore, to further our understanding of the human sense of smell, this study aimed to investigate the effect of perception and imagery of a pleasant odor (BEO) on motor cortex using Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Materials and Methods We examined the primary motor cortex (M1) excitability during perception of a pleasant odor (BEO) or perception of odorless saline (experiment 1). Furthermore, we tested the effect of olfactory imagery (OI) of BEO on corticospinal excitability (experiment 2). The increase in motor evoked potential (MEP) amplitude was correlated with personality dimensions scores, pleasantness, vividness, and general imagery ability. Results The results indicate that the corticospinal excitability changed after both perception and imagery of a pleasant odor (BEO). The correlation analysis shows an association with neuroticism personality trait (experiment 1) and with general olfactory imagery ability (experiment 2). Conclusion Both perception of a pleasant odor and its olfactory imagery modulate motor cortex excitability. The enhanced brain activation is affected by specific individual characteristics. Overall, our findings provide physiological evidence for a complex interaction between the olfactory and motor systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmenrita Infortuna
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Policlinico Universitario “G. Martino”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Gualano
- Department of Medical Sciences, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, NJ, United States
- Department of Neurology, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, NJ, United States
| | - David Freedberg
- Department of Art History and Archeology, Italian Academy for Advanced Studies, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Sapan P. Patel
- Department of Art History and Archeology, Italian Academy for Advanced Studies, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Asad M. Sheikh
- Department of Pre-Clinical Sciences, New York College of Podiatric Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Maria Rosaria Anna Muscatello
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Policlinico Universitario “G. Martino”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Antonio Bruno
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Policlinico Universitario “G. Martino”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Carmela Mento
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Policlinico Universitario “G. Martino”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Eileen Chusid
- Department of Pre-Clinical Sciences, New York College of Podiatric Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Zhiyong Han
- Department of Medical Sciences, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, NJ, United States
| | - Florian P. Thomas
- Department of Neurology, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, NJ, United States
| | - Fortunato Battaglia
- Department of Medical Sciences, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, NJ, United States
- Department of Neurology, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, NJ, United States
- *Correspondence: Fortunato Battaglia,
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Yin L, Song TH, Wei YY, Zhang LG, Zhou SJ, Yu JJ, Zhang LY, Li HJ, Chen JX. Relationship Between Affective Temperaments and Suicide Risk in Patients With First-Onset Major Depressive Disorder. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:893195. [PMID: 35747102 PMCID: PMC9211372 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.893195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background People may endorse suicidal behavior during a major depressive episode. Affective temperaments may play a role in this risk. We explored the relationship between affective temperaments and suicide and identified some traits that can predict suicide risk in depression. Materials and Methods We analyzed the results of the Temperament Evaluation of the Memphis, Pisa, Paris, and San Diego Auto-questionnaire (TEMPS-A) in 284 participants recruited from a psychiatric clinic and the community in Beijing and compared the subscale scores (temperaments of cyclothymic, dysthymic, anxious, irritable, and hyperthymic) among major depressive disorders (MDDs) vs. the general population as well as depressive patients with vs. without suicide risk, using Student's test, chi-square test, rank-sum test, and multivariable regression modeling. Results The incidence of suicidal risk in depressive subjects was 47.62% (80/168). Being unmarried (p < 0.001), unemployed (p = 0.007), and temperaments of dysthymic, cyclothymic, anxious, and irritable scores (all p < 0.001) were significantly more prevalent in patients with depression than in the general population. Young age (p < 0.001), female sex (p = 0.037), unmarried (p = 0.001), more severe depression (p < 0.001), and dysthymic, anxious, and cyclothymic temperament (all p < 0.05) were significantly more prevalent in patients with depressive disorder than those without suicide risk. The logistic regression analysis showed that younger age (odds ratio [OR] = 0.937, 95% CI 0.905∼0.970), female sex (OR = 2.606, 95% CI 1.142∼5.948), more severe depression (OR = 1.145, 95% CI 1.063∼1.234), cyclothymic temperament (OR = 1.275, 95% CI 1.102∼1.475), and dysthymic temperament (OR = 1.265, 95% CI 1.037∼1.542) were all independently associated with high suicidal risk in patients with first-onset major depression (p < 0.05). Conclusion Temperament traits differ between the general population and people suffering from MDD. Subjects with MDD who have much more severe depressive symptoms and a cyclothymic or dysthymic temperament were at a high risk of suicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Yin
- Beijing Hui-Long-Guan Hospital, Peking University Hui-Long-Guan Clinical Medical School, Beijing, China
| | - Tian-He Song
- Department of Psychology, Chengde Medical University, Hebei, China
| | - Yan-Yan Wei
- Beijing Hui-Long-Guan Hospital, Peking University Hui-Long-Guan Clinical Medical School, Beijing, China
| | - Li-Gang Zhang
- Beijing Hui-Long-Guan Hospital, Peking University Hui-Long-Guan Clinical Medical School, Beijing, China
| | - Shuang-Jiang Zhou
- Beijing Hui-Long-Guan Hospital, Peking University Hui-Long-Guan Clinical Medical School, Beijing, China
| | - Jian-Jin Yu
- Beijing Hui-Long-Guan Hospital, Peking University Hui-Long-Guan Clinical Medical School, Beijing, China
| | - Li-Ye Zhang
- Beijing Hui-Long-Guan Hospital, Peking University Hui-Long-Guan Clinical Medical School, Beijing, China
| | - Hong-Juan Li
- Beijing Hui-Long-Guan Hospital, Peking University Hui-Long-Guan Clinical Medical School, Beijing, China
| | - Jing-Xu Chen
- Beijing Hui-Long-Guan Hospital, Peking University Hui-Long-Guan Clinical Medical School, Beijing, China
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Natale A, Concerto C, Rodolico A, Birgillito A, Bonelli M, Martinez M, Signorelli MS, Petralia A, Infortuna C, Battaglia F, Aguglia E. Risk Perception among Psychiatric Patients during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19052620. [PMID: 35270313 PMCID: PMC8909657 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19052620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The fear of the new coronavirus infection has driven many non-COVID-19 patients away from essential healthcare. Our study aimed to investigate the perception of risk and feelings of danger for the contagion in a sample of Italian psychiatric patients. We conducted a cross-sectional observational study during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdown in Italy. The risk perception and risk-related variables were assessed in a sample of 150 consecutive patients with a previous diagnosis of major depression (50), bipolar I disorder (50), and schizophrenia seeking ambulatory care using a questionnaire previously administered to the general Italian population. Our results showed that patients were more concerned about economic, psychological, and interpersonal consequences of COVID-19 pandemic, rather than about their own health. At the multiple regression analysis, the likelihood of COVID-19 resolution was positively influenced by the diagnosis of schizophrenia, the increased perceived effectiveness, and the presence of positive emotions. Indeed, positive emotions and uncertainty positively influenced interpersonal risk. Our study highlights the need to provide more support to psychiatric patients during emergency events to prevent them from engaging in risky behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antimo Natale
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.N.); (C.C.); (A.R.); (A.B.); (M.B.); (M.M.); (M.S.S.); (A.P.); (E.A.)
| | - Carmen Concerto
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.N.); (C.C.); (A.R.); (A.B.); (M.B.); (M.M.); (M.S.S.); (A.P.); (E.A.)
| | - Alessandro Rodolico
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.N.); (C.C.); (A.R.); (A.B.); (M.B.); (M.M.); (M.S.S.); (A.P.); (E.A.)
| | - Andrea Birgillito
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.N.); (C.C.); (A.R.); (A.B.); (M.B.); (M.M.); (M.S.S.); (A.P.); (E.A.)
| | - Marina Bonelli
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.N.); (C.C.); (A.R.); (A.B.); (M.B.); (M.M.); (M.S.S.); (A.P.); (E.A.)
| | - Miriam Martinez
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.N.); (C.C.); (A.R.); (A.B.); (M.B.); (M.M.); (M.S.S.); (A.P.); (E.A.)
| | - Maria Salvina Signorelli
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.N.); (C.C.); (A.R.); (A.B.); (M.B.); (M.M.); (M.S.S.); (A.P.); (E.A.)
| | - Antonino Petralia
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.N.); (C.C.); (A.R.); (A.B.); (M.B.); (M.M.); (M.S.S.); (A.P.); (E.A.)
| | - Carmenrita Infortuna
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences, Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98121 Messina, Italy;
| | - Fortunato Battaglia
- Department of Medical Sciences and Neurology, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Eugenio Aguglia
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.N.); (C.C.); (A.R.); (A.B.); (M.B.); (M.M.); (M.S.S.); (A.P.); (E.A.)
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Opotamutale Ashipala D, Natanael S. Experiences of nursing students who are mothers in balancing their dual roles in undergraduate nursing and midwifery education: A phenomenological study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF AFRICA NURSING SCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijans.2022.100447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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Zettin M, Bondesan C, Nada G, Varini M, Dimitri D. Transcranial Direct-Current Stimulation and Behavioral Training, a Promising Tool for a Tailor-Made Post-stroke Aphasia Rehabilitation: A Review. Front Hum Neurosci 2021; 15:742136. [PMID: 34987366 PMCID: PMC8722401 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.742136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Aphasia is an acquired language disorder resulting from damage to portions of the brain which are responsible for language comprehension and formulation. This disorder can involve different levels of language processing with impairments in both oral and written comprehension and production. Over the last years, different rehabilitation and therapeutic interventions have been developed, especially non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) techniques. One of the most used NIBS techniques in aphasia rehabilitation is the Transcranial Direct-Current Stimulation (tDCS). It has been proven to be effective in promoting a successful recovery both in the short and the long term after a brain injury. The main strength of tDCS is its feasibility associated with relatively minor side effects, if safely and properly administered. TDCS requires two electrodes, an anode and a cathode, which are generally placed on the scalp. The electrode montage can be either unipolar or bipolar. The main aim of this review is to give an overview of the state of the art of tDCS for the treatment of aphasia. The studies described included patients with different types of language impairments, especially with non-fluent aphasia and in several cases anomia. The effects of tDCS are variable and depend on several factors, such as electrode size and montage, duration of the stimulation, current density and characteristics of the brain tissue underneath the electrodes. Generally, tDCS has led to promising results in rehabilitating patients with acquired aphasia, especially if combined with different language and communication therapies. The selection of the appropriate approach depends on the patients treated and their impaired language function. When used in combination with treatments such as Speech and Language Therapy, Constraint Induced Aphasia Therapy or Intensive Action Treatment, tDCS has generally promoted a better recovery of the impaired functions. In addition to these rehabilitation protocols, Action Observation Therapy, such as IMITAF, appeared to contribute to the reduction of post-stroke anomia. The potential of combining such techniques with tDCS would would therefore be a possibility for further improvement, also providing the clinician with a new action and intervention tool. The association of a tDCS protocol with a dedicated rehabilitation training would favor a generalized long-term improvement of the different components of language.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Zettin
- Centro Puzzle, Turin, Italy
- Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Nada
- Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Matteo Varini
- Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Danilo Dimitri
- Centro Puzzle, Turin, Italy
- Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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Infortuna C, Mineo L, Buffer S, Thomas FP, Muscatello MRA, Aguglia E, Bruno A, Zoccali RA, Sheikh A, Chusid E, Han Z, Battaglia F. Acute social and somatic stress alters cortical metaplasticity probed with non-invasive brain stimulation in humans. Int J Psychophysiol 2021; 170:1-5. [PMID: 34547303 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2021.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Studying the neuronal mechanisms that govern the cortical adaptations to acute stress is critical for understanding the development of neuropsychiatric diseases. Homeostatic plasticity stabilizes the neural activity in which a previous synaptic event drives subsequent synaptic plasticity. In this study, we evaluated the effect of acute stress induced with the socially evaluated cold pressor test (SECPT) on cortical metaplasticity in humans using a non-invasive brain stimulation protocol. After being exposed to the SECPT and control stress conditions, 30 healthy participants were tested for cortical metaplasticity assessed with changes in the amplitude of the motor evoked potential (MEP) induced by a single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Cortical metaplasticity was induced by combining priming with cathodal tDCS (cTDCS) followed by a sub-threshold 1-Hz repetitive stimulation (rTMS) test session. Our results showed that SECPT induced cardiovascular adaptations (increase in systolic, diastolic blood pressure, and heart rate), indicating that SECPT effectively induced acute stress. Also, in our experiments stimulation of subjects with 1-Hz rTMS after they had undergone the SECPT condition induced inhibition of MEP whereas 1-Hz rTMS administered after the control condition induced a facilitatory (physiologic) response pattern. Here we observed that acute stress impairs homeostatic metaplasticity. The dysfunctional regulation of cortical plastic changes after stress could play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of neurological and psychiatric diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmenrita Infortuna
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Policlinico Universitario, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Ludovico Mineo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatry Unit, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Steven Buffer
- Department of Medical Sciences and Department of Neurology, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Nutley, NJ, USA
| | - Florian P Thomas
- Department of Neurology, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Hackensack, NJ, USA
| | - Maria Rosaria Anna Muscatello
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Policlinico Universitario, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Eugenio Aguglia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatry Unit, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio Bruno
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatry Unit, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Rocco Antonio Zoccali
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Policlinico Universitario, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Asad Sheikh
- Department of Pre-clinical Sciences, New York College of Podiatric Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Eileen Chusid
- Department of Pre-clinical Sciences, New York College of Podiatric Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Zhyiong Han
- Department of Neurology, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Hackensack, NJ, USA
| | - Fortunato Battaglia
- Department of Neurology, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Hackensack, NJ, USA.
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Jahangeer SMA, Hasnain N, Tariq MT, Jamil A, Zia SY, Amir W. Frequency and Association of Stress Levels with Modes of Commuting Among Medical Students of a Developing Country. Malays J Med Sci 2021; 28:113-122. [PMID: 34512136 PMCID: PMC8407788 DOI: 10.21315/mjms2021.28.4.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction This study aimed at determining the frequency and association of stress levels with modes of transportation and was likely to reveal the contributing transportation-related factors for stress in medical students. Methods This was a questionnaire-based, cross-sectional study that included undergraduate medical students of a public sector medical university in Karachi, Pakistan. A total of 573 students participated voluntarily, of which 300 were provided a manual questionnaire and 273 filled it online. The reliability of the questionnaire was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha at 0.791. The collected data were analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, version 21.0. Results Out of 573 participants, 99.3% (n = 298) of students filled the questionnaire manually, whereas 100% of students filled the questionnaire online. Almost two-thirds of students used university transport; more than 90% lived more than 5 km from the university and 56% had a traveling time of more than an hour. Approximately 15.4% of students reported physical trauma and some form of harassment. Sheldon Cohen’s stress scale surprisingly revealed 90% of students to be within the moderate-to-high stress category. Risk factors were associated with stress levels and significant associations were observed with noise exposure (P = 0.023) and sleep quality (P = 0.001). The most common reported stressors associated with commuting included overcrowding, long travel, and air and noise pollution. Noise pollution was the main predictor of stress among commuters. Conclusion Poor transportation has adverse effects on health and academic performance. Administration in their respective jurisdictions is needed to investigate this matter to make commuting a routine rather than a hassle.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nimra Hasnain
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Taha Tariq
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Ammara Jamil
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Syeda Yamna Zia
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Washma Amir
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
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The Impact of Self-Efficacy, Optimism, Resilience and Perceived Stress on Academic Performance and Its Subjective Evaluation: A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18178911. [PMID: 34501501 PMCID: PMC8431330 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18178911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to highlight the contribution of self-efficacy, optimism, resilience and perceived stress on academic performance (GPA) at medical undergraduate students. Additionally, we investigated the relationship established between abovementioned variables, gender and position in the academic cycle and the factors associated with satisfaction regarding own academic results. 118 students (25 men, 93 women, mean age 22.863, SD = 1.763) participated in the study. They were administered the General Self-Efficacy Scale (G-SES), the Revised Life Orientation test (LOT-R), the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). t, Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney, chi-square tests, and linear regressions were performed, in order to test the strength of the hypothesized associations. Data analysis demonstrates a significant association between low optimism, low resilience, high perceived stress and poor academic performance. Even though preclinical students displayed greater perceived stress, it negatively correlated to GPA only in clinical students, this indicating a possible accumulation of stress-related effects. No gender differences were met for the studied variables. Students in clinical cycle were significantly less satisfied about their own performance. These results indicate solid associations between psychosocial variables and academic performance, and differences in the subjective evaluation of own performance, suggesting key points to address, when designing interventions against academic stress.
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Zulkifly MFM, Merkohitaj O, Paulus W, Brockmöller J. The roles of caffeine and corticosteroids in modulating cortical excitability after paired associative stimulation (PAS) and transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) in caffeine-naïve and caffeine-adapted subjects. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2021; 127:105201. [PMID: 33740589 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2021.105201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The modulatory effects of non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) are highly variable between subjects. This variability may be due to uncontrolled caffeine consumption and circadian rhythms. Therefore, here we studied if caffeine consumption, systemically available caffeine measured in saliva, and daytime have effects on the excitability and plasticity of the motor cortex. Since both, time of the day and caffeine may mediate their effects via cortisol, we also quantified corticosteroids in saliva. Experiment 1 was performed in caffeine-naïve participants (n = 30) and compared the effects of PAS or tACS with different stimulation intensities on the motor cortex with or without caffeine 200 mg administered in a double-blind fashion. Experiment 2 was performed in regular caffeine consumers (n = 30) and compared the influence of time of day on the effects of tACS (true or sham) on the motor cortex also with or without caffeine administered in a double-blind fashion. Caffeine increased the saliva corticosteroid concentrations in both experimental groups, and corticosteroid concentrations were higher in the morning in caffeine consumers. Gender also affected corticosteroid concentrations. There was a positive correlation between caffeine concentrations and baseline cortical excitability in caffeine-adapted participants, and a negative correlation between poststimulation caffeine concentrations and motor evoked potential (MEP) amplitudes after sham stimulation in caffeine-naïve subjects. No correlations were found between poststimulation caffeine or corticosteroid concentrations, and plasticity aftereffects. PAS and tACS did not elicit changes in the corticosteroid concentrations. We conclude that moderate caffeine consumption alters cortical excitability but not plasticity aftereffects. This study was registered in the ClinicalTrials.gov with these registration IDs: 1) NCT03720665 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/results?cond=NCT03720665&term=&cntry=&state=&city=&dist= 2) NCT04011670 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/results?cond=&term=NCT04011670&cntry=&state=&city=&dist=.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohd Faizal Mohd Zulkifly
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, University Medical Center, Georg-August University, Göttingen, Germany; Brain and Behaviour Cluster, Department of Neurosciences, School of Medical Science, Universiti Sains Malaysia Health Campus, Kubang Kerian, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia.
| | - Ornela Merkohitaj
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, University Medical Center, Georg-August University, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Walter Paulus
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, University Medical Center, Georg-August University, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Jürgen Brockmöller
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, University Medical Center, Georg-August University, Göttingen, Germany
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Infortuna C, Gratteri F, Benotakeia A, Patel S, Fleischman A, Muscatello MRA, Bruno A, Zoccali RA, Chusid E, Han Z, Battaglia F. Exploring the Gender Difference and Predictors of Perceived Stress among Students Enrolled in Different Medical Programs: A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17186647. [PMID: 32933068 PMCID: PMC7558788 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17186647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Female medical students seem to experience higher level of perceived stress. Moreover, there is a lack of research examining perceived stress in students enrolled in different medical programs. We analyzed the association between temperament traits, optimism, self-esteem, and perceived stress of students pursuing a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree and students pursuing a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree. A cross-sectional study was conducted of two cohorts: allopathic medical students (N = 154) and the podiatric medical students (N = 150). Students anonymously completed the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris, and San Diego Auto Questionnaire (TEMPS-A), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and Life Orientation Test—Revised (LOT-R). We analyzed differences in the two cohort of students and predictors of perceived stress. There were no differences in the overall perception of stress between both cohorts (allopathic medical students: 18.83 ± 0.56; podiatric medical students: 19.3 ± 0.72; p = 0.4419). Women reported higher perceived stress in both programs (allopathic medical students: p = 0.0.038; podiatric medical students: p = 0.0.038). In both allopathic and podiatric medical students, the cyclothymic temperaments and anxious traits were positive predictors while hyperthymic temperaments and optimism traits were negative predictors of perceived stress. The level of perceived stress experienced by students pursuing different doctoral degrees in healthcare is similar. Regardless of the curriculum differences, female students experience higher perceived stress and there is evidence for similarities in predictors amongst allopathic and podiatric medical students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmenrita Infortuna
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Policlinico Universitario, University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy; (C.I.); (F.G.); (M.R.A.M.); (A.B.); (R.A.Z.)
| | - Francesco Gratteri
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Policlinico Universitario, University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy; (C.I.); (F.G.); (M.R.A.M.); (A.B.); (R.A.Z.)
| | - Andrew Benotakeia
- Department of Medical Sciences and Neurology, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine at Seton Hall University, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA; (A.B.); (Z.H.)
| | - Sapan Patel
- Department of Pre-Clinical Sciences, New York College of Podiatric Medicine, New York, NY 10035, USA; (S.P.); (A.F.); (E.C.)
| | - Alex Fleischman
- Department of Pre-Clinical Sciences, New York College of Podiatric Medicine, New York, NY 10035, USA; (S.P.); (A.F.); (E.C.)
| | - Maria Rosaria Anna Muscatello
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Policlinico Universitario, University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy; (C.I.); (F.G.); (M.R.A.M.); (A.B.); (R.A.Z.)
| | - Antonio Bruno
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Policlinico Universitario, University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy; (C.I.); (F.G.); (M.R.A.M.); (A.B.); (R.A.Z.)
| | - Rocco Antonio Zoccali
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Policlinico Universitario, University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy; (C.I.); (F.G.); (M.R.A.M.); (A.B.); (R.A.Z.)
| | - Eileen Chusid
- Department of Pre-Clinical Sciences, New York College of Podiatric Medicine, New York, NY 10035, USA; (S.P.); (A.F.); (E.C.)
| | - Zhiyong Han
- Department of Medical Sciences and Neurology, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine at Seton Hall University, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA; (A.B.); (Z.H.)
| | - Fortunato Battaglia
- Department of Medical Sciences and Neurology, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine at Seton Hall University, Nutley, NJ 07110, USA; (A.B.); (Z.H.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-9737619605
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Mendoza-Castejón D, Clemente-Suárez VJ. Psychophysiological Stress Markers and Behavioural Differences between Rural and City Primary School Students. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17093157. [PMID: 32369979 PMCID: PMC7246661 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17093157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Academic performance could be affected by multiple factors, including stress and learning environment location. The aim of this study was to analyze differences in psychophysiological stress markers, behavior and academic performance of rural and city students. A sample of 181 children (7.91 ± 2.29 years) from elementary schools were evaluated on their grades, subjective academic performance, heart rate variability, state anxiety, nutritional information and physical activity habits. Results presented significant higher values in parasympathetic modulation and physical education grades in rural students than in city students, who showed higher significant values in state anxiety, the ability to complete tasks, physical activity habits and several items relating to their food and drink habits. No significant differences were found in the average grades between the two groups. However, some correlations were found between school performance and stress, physical fitness and nutritional habits. Thus, school location may affect the stress and anxiety status, nutritional habits and physical activities of students, but there were no significant differences in academic performance. In addition, body mass index, quantity of food intake and stress markers may be related to the academic performance attained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Mendoza-Castejón
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Villaviciosa de Odón, Spain;
| | - Vicente Javier Clemente-Suárez
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Villaviciosa de Odón, Spain;
- Grupo de Investigación en Cultura, Educación y Sociedad, Universidad de la Costa, Barranquilla 080002, Colombia
- Correspondence:
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Chan JC, Morgan CP, Adrian Leu N, Shetty A, Cisse YM, Nugent BM, Morrison KE, Jašarević E, Huang W, Kanyuch N, Rodgers AB, Bhanu NV, Berger DS, Garcia BA, Ament S, Kane M, Neill Epperson C, Bale TL. Reproductive tract extracellular vesicles are sufficient to transmit intergenerational stress and program neurodevelopment. Nat Commun 2020; 11:1499. [PMID: 32198406 PMCID: PMC7083921 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-15305-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2018] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a unique mode of intercellular communication capable of incredible specificity in transmitting signals involved in cellular function, including germ cell maturation. Spermatogenesis occurs in the testes, behind a protective barrier to ensure safeguarding of germline DNA from environmental insults. Following DNA compaction, further sperm maturation occurs in the epididymis. Here, we report reproductive tract EVs transmit information regarding stress in the paternal environment to sperm, potentially altering fetal development. Using intracytoplasmic sperm injection, we found that sperm incubated with EVs collected from stress-treated epididymal epithelial cells produced offspring with altered neurodevelopment and adult stress reactivity. Proteomic and transcriptomic assessment of these EVs showed dramatic changes in protein and miRNA content long after stress treatment had ended, supporting a lasting programmatic change in response to chronic stress. Thus, EVs as a normal process in sperm maturation, can also perform roles in intergenerational transmission of paternal environmental experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer C Chan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Christopher P Morgan
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Epigenetic Research in Child Health and Brain Development, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - N Adrian Leu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Amol Shetty
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Yasmine M Cisse
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Epigenetic Research in Child Health and Brain Development, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Bridget M Nugent
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Epigenetic Research in Child Health and Brain Development, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Kathleen E Morrison
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Epigenetic Research in Child Health and Brain Development, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Eldin Jašarević
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Epigenetic Research in Child Health and Brain Development, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Weiliang Huang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Nickole Kanyuch
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Epigenetic Research in Child Health and Brain Development, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Ali B Rodgers
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Natarajan V Bhanu
- Epigenetics Institute, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Dara S Berger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Benjamin A Garcia
- Epigenetics Institute, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Seth Ament
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Maureen Kane
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - C Neill Epperson
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Tracy L Bale
- Department of Pharmacology and Center for Epigenetic Research in Child Health and Brain Development, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
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Gebhart V, Buchberger W, Klotz I, Neururer S, Rungg C, Tucek G, Zenzmaier C, Perkhofer S. Distraction-focused interventions on examination stress in nursing students: Effects on psychological stress and biomarker levels. A randomized controlled trial. Int J Nurs Pract 2019; 26:e12788. [PMID: 31724291 DOI: 10.1111/ijn.12788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nursing students all over the world experience high levels of stress with negative impacts on their health, emotional state and performance. AIM This study aimed to investigate the effects of distraction-focused interventions on examination stress and anxiety in nursing students. METHODS A randomized controlled, parallel trial design was conducted from January to June 2016. After baseline measurement, 72 participants were randomized to one of the following groups (n = 18 each): (i) animal-assisted therapy; (ii) music therapy; (iii) mandala painting; (iv) control group. Outcomes of all groups in terms of stress-reduction were compared by measuring self-reported perceived stress (STAI-State and visual analogue stress scale) and salivary biomarker levels (Cortisol and Immunoglobulin A). RESULTS Fifty-seven complete data sets (n = 12-16 for each group) were analysed. All distraction-focused interventions showed stress and anxiety reduction in everyday school situations. By contrast, on days with examinations, stress reductions did not reach statistical significance in regard to self-reported psychological stress. At the same time, interventions resulted in significantly decreased levels of stress biomarkers (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS Our preliminary findings suggest positive but situation-dependent effects of distraction-focused interventions in academic settings. Further research should investigate the complex relationship between physiological and psychological stress parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Gebhart
- FHG - Zentrum für Gesundheitsberufe Tirol GmbH, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Waltraud Buchberger
- FHG - Zentrum für Gesundheitsberufe Tirol GmbH, Innsbruck, Austria.,Ausbildungszentrum West für Gesundheitsberufe der Tirol Kliniken GmbH, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Isabella Klotz
- Ausbildungszentrum West für Gesundheitsberufe der Tirol Kliniken GmbH, Innsbruck, Austria
| | | | - Christine Rungg
- FHG - Zentrum für Gesundheitsberufe Tirol GmbH, Innsbruck, Austria
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Almogbel E, Aladhadh AM, Almotyri BH, Alhumaid AF, Rasheed N. Stress Associated Alterations in Dietary Behaviours of Undergraduate Students of Qassim University, Saudi Arabia. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2019; 7:2182-2188. [PMID: 31456849 PMCID: PMC6698097 DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2019.571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2019] [Revised: 06/22/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Psychological stress associated eating habits among public health have now become a global concern. AIM: This study was undertaken to investigate the levels of psychological stress among undergraduate students of Qassim University and to explore the stress associated alterations in their eating habits. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional survey conducted on 614 undergraduate students of Qassim University, Saudi Arabia. A self-administered questionnaire was used, which included questions on socio-demography and eating habits. Level of stress was measured by a standardised questionnaire highlights the levels of non-chronic stimulation through difficulty relaxing, nervous arousal and being easily upset/agitated, irritable / over-reactive and impatient. RESULTS: Our results show that 28.2% of total participants suffered from some extent of stress. Among stressed participants, 17.3%, 49.1%, 24.8% and 8.7% of participants suffered from mild, moderate, severe and extremely severe stress, respectively. Stressed participants were more preferred to eat junk foods such as fast foods, snacks and beverages as compared with unstressed participants (p < 0.05) and the junk food preference was increased with the increase of stress levels. Moreover, non-stressed participants preferred more healthy foods such as vegetarian food, fresh fruits as compared with stressed participants (p < 0.05). Taste and easy to access were the main reasons for the preference of junk foods by the stressed participants. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first comprehensive study from Saudi Arabia to show stress associated dietary alterations in undergraduates of Qassim University. Data concluded that most of the young adults followed a healthy eating pattern, but a significant number from them were affected by stress. Therefore, specific intervention programs are strongly recommended for the reduction of stress and to improve their quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebtehal Almogbel
- Department of Family Medicine, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraidah, KSA
| | | | | | - Ahmad F Alhumaid
- Research Center, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraidah, KSA
| | - Naila Rasheed
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraidah, KSA
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Chew QH, Holmboe E, Sim K. Learning environment, stress and coping in psychiatry residents within a national training program: a longitudinal study. PERSPECTIVES ON MEDICAL EDUCATION 2019; 8:160-166. [PMID: 31098980 PMCID: PMC6565663 DOI: 10.1007/s40037-019-0512-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Perception of one's learning environment is associated with academic performance and well-being of medical students. Yet, few studies have explored learners' perceptions and their correlates within a postgraduate environment. This study examined longitudinal changes in learning environment perception, perceived stress and coping for psychiatry residents in junior and senior years of training. Based on extant social learning theories, we hypothesized that learning environment perceptions will improve with seniority, and be accompanied by lower stress levels and better coping. METHODS Eighty-two out of 101 psychiatry residents (81.2%) from our National Psychiatry Residency Program rated their perception of learning environment, perceived stress, and coping strategies from June 2016 to June 2018. Correlations between these variables, and changes across five timepoints were examined. RESULTS Senior-year residents reported better perception of learning environment over time, together with increased use of problem-focused coping and lowered perceived stress levels. Junior-year residents reported no changes in learning environment perception and coping strategies, despite rating greater perceived stress levels over time. Perception of learning environment negatively correlated with perceived stress levels and specific coping strategies. DISCUSSION Based on these findings, we suggest specific strategies with the emphasis on context, participation, and social interaction within a community of practice to better support residents in training, which are applicable to other similar training programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Hui Chew
- Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Eric Holmboe
- Milestones Development and Evaluation of the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Kang Sim
- West Region, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore.
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Concerto C, Infortuna C, Muscatello MRA, Bruno A, Zoccali R, Chusid E, Aguglia E, Battaglia F. Exploring the effect of adaptogenic Rhodiola Rosea extract on neuroplasticity in humans. Complement Ther Med 2018; 41:141-146. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2018.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Revised: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
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Kotani S, Furuya S. State anxiety disorganizes finger movements during musical performance. J Neurophysiol 2018; 120:439-451. [PMID: 29641301 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00813.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Skilled performance, in many situations, exposes an individual to psychological stress and fear, thus triggering state anxiety and compromising motor dexterity. Suboptimal skill execution in people under pressure affects the future career prospects of trained individuals, such as athletes, clinicians, and musicians. However, it has not been elucidated in what manner state anxiety affects multijoint movements and thereby degrades fine motor control. Using principal component analysis of hand kinematics recorded by a data glove during piano performances, we tested whether state anxiety affects the organization of movements of multiple joints or merely constrains the amplitude of the individual joints without affecting joint movement coordination. The result demonstrated changes in the coordination of movements across joints in piano performances by experts under psychological stress. Overall, the change was characterized by reduction of synergistic movements between the finger responsible for the keypress and its adjacent fingers. A regression analysis further identified that the attenuation of the movement covariation between the fingers was associated with an increase in temporal error during performance under pressure. In contrast, neither the maximum nor minimum angles of the individual joints of the hand were susceptible to induced anxiety. These results suggest that degradation of fine motor control under pressure is mediated by incoordination of movements between the fingers in skilled piano performances. NEW & NOTEWORTHY A key issue in neuromuscular control of coordinated movements is how the nervous system organizes multiple degrees of freedom for production of skillful motor behaviors. We found that state anxiety disorchestrates the organization of finger movements so as to decrease synergistic motions between the fingers in musical performance, which degrades fine motor control. The findings are important to shed light on mechanisms underlying loss of motor dexterity under pressure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuntaro Kotani
- Musical Skill and Injury Center (MuSIC), Sophia University , Tokyo , Japan
| | - Shinichi Furuya
- Musical Skill and Injury Center (MuSIC), Sophia University , Tokyo , Japan.,Sony Computer Science Laboratories, Inc. , Tokyo , Japan
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