Impact of virtual reality-based therapy on post-stroke depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Post-stroke depression is the most common neuropsychiatric consequence and reduces rehabilitation effectiveness. However, the efficacy of virtual reality (VR) on mental health treatment for patients after a stroke is uncertain.

AIMS

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of VR as a co-adjuvant form of treatment to reduce depression in stroke patients admitted to neurorehabilitation units.

METHODS

We systematically searched medical databases including PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov from inception to November 16, 2023. Clinical trials comparing the use of VR as an adjuvant form of treatment in stroke patients' rehabilitation with the usual treatment were included. Pooled standardized mean differences were calculated using a random-effects model. Subgroup analyses were performed according to type of stroke, VR characteristics, and the scale used to measure depression. Meta-regression analysis was performed for intervention duration and to determine the mean age of the participants.

RESULTS

Eight studies and 388 stroke patients were included. The VR interventions were associated with a lower risk of depression in patients (ES = -0.69; 95% CI [-1.05, -0.33]; I2 = 57.6%; p ≤ .02). The estimates were not affected by the type of stroke, the type of VR used, the blinding process, the type of scale used to detect depression, the duration of the intervention (weeks and minutes), and the total number of sessions. Meta-regression shows that younger samples (p = .00; 95% CI [0.01, 0.08) and longer interventions (p = < .05; 95% CI [-0.00, -0.00) lead to a greater reduction in depression.

LINKING EVIDENCE TO ACTION

This review provides an important basis for treating depression in patients after a stroke. Professionals working in stroke neurorehabilitation units should consider VR as a form of co-adjuvant treatment for depression in patients.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

CRD42022303968.

A systematic approach to defining and verifying descriptors used in the Qualitative Behavioural Assessment of sows

Qualitative Behaviour Assessment (QBA) is a welfare evaluation tool that uses a holistic approach to capturing an animal's emotional state. Lists of QBA descriptors validated to assess pig welfare exist, but their definitions are often not described in peer-reviewed literature and the processes used to develop definitions are lacking. The objective of this study is to detail a systematic approach to creating clear definitions for a pre-existing fixed list of QBA descriptors and test their application. A fixed list of 20 descriptors from the EU Welfare Quality® assessment protocol for pigs was modified, and ten pig experts were recruited to assist with defining these descriptors in a focus group-style discussion. Half of the experts involved in creating descriptor definitions partook in a subsequent step, where the newly developed definitions were tested by implementing QBA on a video library of post-weaned sows selected to capture the breadth of sow behaviour. Experts displayed excellent agreement in identifying a PCA dimension interpreted as the valence of descriptors and good agreement for another reflecting arousal. Inter-observer reliability was also measured for each descriptor. Only two descriptors exhibited less than moderate agreement between experts whereas half of the descriptors evoked substantial agreement or better. These findings support our process to delineate clear definitions for a fixed list of QBA descriptors in pigs. This study is the first of its kind detailing the in-depth process of creating and verifying descriptor definitions for future use in sow welfare assessment.

Events with Different Emotional Valence Affect the Eye's Lacrimal Caruncle Temperature Changes in Sheep

Infrared thermography (IRT) has been recently applied to measure lacrimal caruncle temperature non-invasively since this region is related to the sympathetic response, and it seems a promising technique that is able to infer negative emotions in sheep (e.g., fear). However, the scientific literature so far is limited in understanding whether a caruncle's temperature changes also in response to positive emotional states in sheep. Through classical conditioning, we aimed to assess how a positive or a negative event affects the physiological (lacrimal caruncle temperature measured with IRT and cortisol levels) and behavioral responses of sheep (ear position). Fourteen ewes from the same flock were randomly assigned to two treatment groups: positive (n = 7) and negative (n = 7). Each group was then trained through classical conditioning to associate a neutral auditory (ring bell) stimulus to an oncoming event: for the positive group, the presence of a food reward (maize grains), while for the negative one, the opening of an umbrella. After three weeks of training, before (at rest) and after (post-treatment), lacrimal caruncle temperature was non-invasively measured via IRT, and saliva samples were gently collected to measure cortisol levels. During treatment, sheep behavior was videorecorded and then analyzed using a focal animal sampling technique. At rest, the eye's lacrimal caruncle temperature was similar in both groups, while post-treatment, a significant increase was shown only in the negative group (t-test; p = 0.017). In the anticipation phase, sheep in the positive group kept their ears forward longer compared to those in the negative one (Mann-Whitney; p < 0.014), 8.3 ± 2.1 s and 5.2 ± 4.2 s, respectively. The behavioral response observed reflects a learnt association between a neutral stimulus and events with different emotional valence. Cortisol concentration slightly increased in both groups post-treatment. Our results confirm that IRT is a non-invasive technique that can be useful when applied to assess how positive and negative events may affect the physiological response in sheep.

Impact of 10-Min Daily Yoga Exercises on Physical and Mental Discomfort of Home-Office Workers During COVID-19

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the effects of 10 min/day of yoga for 1 month on musculoskeletal discomfort and mood disturbance of home-office workers.

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic forced many people to switch to teleworking. The abrupt change from an office setting to an improvised home-office may negatively affect the musculoskeletal and emotional health of workers. By providing mental and physical exercises, yoga may be effective in reducing adverse effects.

METHOD

Fifty-four participants (42 women, 12 men) followed a 1-month yoga program, while 40 participants (26 women, 14 men) continued with their common work routine. The Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire was used to evaluate severity, interference with work and frequency of pain, and to obtain a total discomfort score for 25 body areas. Mood disturbance was evaluated with the Profile of Mood States questionnaire. Both groups completed both questionnaires, before and after the experimentation period.

RESULTS

After 1 month, for the yoga group only, significant reductions were observed in the discomfort of eyes, head, neck, upper and lower back, right wrist, and hips/buttocks, as well as reductions in discomfort severity, frequency and interference for the neck, upper and lower back. Total mood disturbance was also significantly reduced for the yoga group only. No favorable changes occurred for the control group.

CONCLUSION

The yoga intervention program appears to reduce musculoskeletal discomfort and mood disturbance of home-office workers.

APPLICATION

Sedentary workers may benefit from 10 min/day of yoga during the workday to attenuate potential physical and emotional discomfort during the current pandemic and beyond.

Analysis of the feelings of patients with HIV/AIDS and HCV in contact with health professionals. Assessment based on cases of stigmatisation and discrimination

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate incidences of stigmatisation and discrimination by selected health professionals against patients with HIV/AIDS and HCV, and to assess how these affected feelings in both groups.

METHODS

The study involved 160 patients - 80 diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in the baseline group and 80 with HCV in the comparison group. Patients were recruited from among patients treated in two outpatient clinics of the University Hospital in Krakow.

RESULTS

Incidents of stigmatisation and discrimination were observed significantly more often in the HIV/AIDS group compared to the HCV group. According to the patients, incidents of stigmatisation and discrimination on the part of medical staff occur due to fear and a sense of threat from infection with the viruses. The experience of stigmatisation and discrimination by patients manifests itself in the impediment or denial of healthcare services by medical professionals. Some of the medical staff blamed the patients for the infection, expressed disrespect and verbal aggression towards them, and treated them worse when they found out about the infection. Their emotional state depended on the nature of the relationship with the medical staff triggered by stigmatisation and discrimination.

CONCLUSIONS

Stigmatisation and discrimination by medical staff against patients were, according to the respondents, linked to fear of infection but confirmation of this relationship would require further research. In the course of these cases, patients experienced pejorative verbal evaluation, impediment or denial of health services, which could have specific health consequences. These types of attitudes had a negative impact on their emotional state.

Qualitative Behavioural Assessment as a welfare indicator for farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) in response to a stressful challenge

Animal welfare assessments have struggled to investigate the emotional states of animals while focusing solely on available empirical evidence. Qualitative Behavioural Assessment (QBA) may provide insights into an animal's subjective experiences without compromising scientific rigor. Rather than assessing explicit, physical behaviours (i.e., what animals are doing, such as swimming or feeding), QBA describes and quantifies the overall expressive manner in which animals execute those behaviours (i.e., how relaxed or agitated they appear). While QBA has been successfully applied to scientific welfare assessments in a variety of species, its application within aquaculture remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to assess QBA's effectiveness in capturing changes in the emotional behaviour of Atlantic salmon following exposure to a stressful challenge. Nine tanks of juvenile Atlantic salmon were video-recorded every morning for 15 min over a 7-day period, in the middle of which a stressful challenge (intrusive sampling) was conducted on the salmon. The resultant 1-min, 63 video clips were then semi-randomised to avoid predictability and treatment bias for QBA scorers. Twelve salmon-industry professionals generated a list of 16 qualitative descriptors (e.g., relaxed, agitated, stressed) after viewing unrelated video-recordings depicting varying expressive characteristics of salmon in different contexts. A different group of 5 observers, with varied experience of salmon farming, subsequently scored the 16 descriptors for each clip using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Principal Components Analysis (correlation matrix, no rotation) was used to identify perceived patterns of expressive characteristics across the video-clips, which revealed 4 dimensions explaining 74.5% of the variation between clips. PC1, ranging from 'relaxed/content/positive active' to 'unsettled/stressed/spooked/skittish' explained the highest percentage of variation (37%). QBA scores for video-clips on PC1, PC2, and PC4 achieved good inter- and intra-observer reliability. Linear Mixed Effects Models, controlled for observer variation in PC1 scores, showed a significant difference between PC1 scores before and after sampling (p = 0.03), with salmon being perceived as more stressed afterwards. PC1 scores also correlated positively with darting behaviours (r = 0.42, p < 0.001). These results are the first to report QBA's sensitivity to changes in expressive characteristics of salmon following a putatively stressful challenge, demonstrating QBA's potential as a welfare indicator within aquaculture.

Emotional state as a modulator of autonomic and somatic nervous system activity in postural control: a review

Advances in our understanding of postural control have highlighted the need to examine the influence of higher brain centers in the modulation of this complex function. There is strong evidence of a link between emotional state, autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity and somatic nervous system (somatic NS) activity in postural control. For example, relationships have been demonstrated between postural threat, anxiety, fear of falling, balance confidence, and physiological arousal. Behaviorally, increased arousal has been associated with changes in velocity and amplitude of postural sway during quiet standing. The potential links between ANS and somatic NS, observed in control of posture, are associated with shared neuroanatomical connections within the central nervous system (CNS). The influence of emotional state on postural control likely reflects the important influence the limbic system has on these ANS/somatic NS control networks. This narrative review will highlight several examples of behaviors which routinely require coordination between the ANS and somatic NS, highlighting the importance of the neurofunctional link between these systems. Furthermore, we will extend beyond the more historical focus on threat models and examine how disordered/altered emotional state and ANS processing may influence postural control and assessment. Finally, this paper will discuss studies that have been important in uncovering the modulatory effect of emotional state on postural control including links that may inform our understanding of disordered control, such as that observed in individuals living with Parkinson's disease and discuss methodological tools that have the potential to advance understanding of this complex relationship.

Emotional and cognitive states of geriatric patients during the COVID-19 pandemic - an observational study

Introduction

The authors of the study assessed the emotional and cognitive state of geriatric patients during the COVID-19 pandemic and tried to answer the question: were there any differences in this state in geriatric patients at different stages of the pandemic?

Material and methods

The study included 518 patients of 60 years old and above of the Department of Geriatrics in Warsaw. To collect data, the following tools of psychological measurement were applied: the Mini-Mental State Examination scale and Geriatric Depression Scale. In order to test the differences in the means between the groups, a Chi-square test (with Yates's correction for continuity when the class size did not exceed 8 items) was used. For the comparison of the three groups, the Kruskal-Wallis (ANOVA) test was performed.

Results

It was found that the majority of geriatric patients (73% of respondents) do not show symptoms of depressed mood. But there are statistically significant differences in the results of the patients' cognitive state tests depending on the time of examination. Patients examined before the pandemic tended to demonstrate a better cognitive state than patients at the beginning of the pandemic and in its later stages. Nevertheless, there are no significant differences in the cognitive functioning of patients examined at the beginning and later in the pandemic.

Conclusions

The number of geriatric patients with symptoms of depression significantly increased when visits of relatives prohibition were introduced. However, the number of patients with depression returned to its previous level later in the pandemic.This phenomenon may indicate psychological adaptation to the situation. The presented results of observation suggest that the introduction of limitations is less important than the particular perception of one's situation and adaptation to that.

Distributed and hierarchical neural encoding of multidimensional biological motion attributes in the human brain

The human visual system can efficiently extract distinct physical, biological, and social attributes (e.g. facing direction, gender, and emotional state) from biological motion (BM), but how these attributes are encoded in the brain remains largely unknown. In the current study, we used functional magnetic resonance imaging to investigate this issue when participants viewed multidimensional BM stimuli. Using multiple regression representational similarity analysis, we identified distributed brain areas, respectively, related to the processing of facing direction, gender, and emotional state conveyed by BM. These brain areas are governed by a hierarchical structure in which the respective neural encoding of facing direction, gender, and emotional state is modulated by each other in descending order. We further revealed that a portion of the brain areas identified in representational similarity analysis was specific to the neural encoding of each attribute and correlated with the corresponding behavioral results. These findings unravel the brain networks for encoding BM attributes in consideration of their interactions, and highlight that the processing of multidimensional BM attributes is recurrently interactive.

The Level of Stress and Anxiety in Pregnant Women Depending on Social Support and Physical Activity

Social support and physical activity are mentioned among the numerous factors affecting the emotional state of pregnant women. Therefore, the aim of the study was to assess the level of perceived stress and anxiety in pregnant women depending on social support and their physical activity both before and during pregnancy and find the factors that affected the level of perceived stress.

METHODS

A total of 373 pregnant women were qualified for the study. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and a self-administered questionnaire were used.

RESULTS

In the study group, a high level of stress and anxiety were noted. A comparative analysis showed that physically active women before pregnancy, women attending childbirth classes and remaining in a relationship, were characterized by a lower level of stress and anxiety compared to physically inactive women, women who did not participate in childbirth classes and were single. A multiple linear regression analysis showed that participation in childbirth classes, physical activity before pregnancy, the level of anxiety as a trait, and women's age had the most significant impact on the stress level of surveyed women.

CONCLUSIONS

Further research among pregnant women and women in the postpartum period is needed to confirm the benefits of physical activity and to identify as many factors as possible that may affect the emotional state of pregnant women.

A Narrative Review of Speech and EEG Features for Schizophrenia Detection: Progress and Challenges

Schizophrenia is a mental illness that affects an estimated 21 million people worldwide. The literature establishes that electroencephalography (EEG) is a well-implemented means of studying and diagnosing mental disorders. However, it is known that speech and language provide unique and essential information about human thought. Semantic and emotional content, semantic coherence, syntactic structure, and complexity can thus be combined in a machine learning process to detect schizophrenia. Several studies show that early identification is crucial to prevent the onset of illness or mitigate possible complications. Therefore, it is necessary to identify disease-specific biomarkers for an early diagnosis support system. This work contributes to improving our knowledge about schizophrenia and the features that can identify this mental illness via speech and EEG. The emotional state is a specific characteristic of schizophrenia that can be identified with speech emotion analysis. The most used features of speech found in the literature review are fundamental frequency (F0), intensity/loudness (I), frequency formants (F1, F2, and F3), Mel-frequency cepstral coefficients (MFCC's), the duration of pauses and sentences (SD), and the duration of silence between words. Combining at least two feature categories achieved high accuracy in the schizophrenia classification. Prosodic and spectral or temporal features achieved the highest accuracy. The work with higher accuracy used the prosodic and spectral features QEVA, SDVV, and SSDL, which were derived from the F0 and spectrogram. The emotional state can be identified with most of the features previously mentioned (F0, I, F1, F2, F3, MFCCs, and SD), linear prediction cepstral coefficients (LPCC), linear spectral features (LSF), and the pause rate. Using the event-related potentials (ERP), the most promissory features found in the literature are mismatch negativity (MMN), P2, P3, P50, N1, and N2. The EEG features with higher accuracy in schizophrenia classification subjects are the nonlinear features, such as Cx, HFD, and Lya.

Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Women's Health and Obstetric Outcomes after Assisted Reproduction: A Survey from an Italian Fertility Center

BACKGROUND

the restrictive measures that were adopted during three waves of the COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on both the emotional state and lifestyle of the general population. We evaluated the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on lifestyles and emotional states of women planning assisted reproductive technology (ART), and whether these changes affected ART outcomes.

METHODS

quantitative research, using a web-based survey, was performed on 289 Caucasian women.

RESULTS

In preconception, we observed higher percentage of women with positive obstetric outcomes who reduced body weight (52.4% vs. 27.2%, p = 0.09). Over 60% of women with positive outcomes practiced physical activity vs. 47% of women with negative outcomes (p = 0.03), as well as having better quality of sleep (45% vs. 35%), and a more solid relationships with their partners (65.1% vs. 51.7%, p = 0.03). Women who increased their intake of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes (p < 0.05), according to the Mediterranean diet, showed positive outcomes. We observed that participants who experienced "very much" or "extreme" anxiety, sadness, and fear (p < 0.05) during pandemic were clearly more numerous in the group with negative pregnancy outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

healthy lifestyle together with a positive emotional state in preconception can positively influence the obstetric outcomes after ART.

Study on the effect of intervention on postpartum psychological improvement and body recovery of caesarean section women based on information-motivation-behavioural skills model

AIM

To explore the effect of information-motivation-behavioural skills (IMB) model on psychological and emotional state of caesarean section (CS) women.

DESIGN

Control-group patients got routine nursing during the preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative periods. Observation-group patients received routine nursing combined with the IMB model that included specific informational, motivational and behavioural interventions.

METHODS

Pregnant women (n = 102) who underwent CS in Hangzhou Women's Hospital were randomly divided into Control and Observation-groups (n = 51 each). Self-rating anxiety scale (SAS), self-rating depression scale (SDS) and general self-efficacy scale (GSES) scores, complication rate, fatigue severity scale (FSS) and Edinburgh postpartum depression scale (EPDS) scores were compared.

RESULT

Interventions lowered SAS and SDS scores, significantly lower in the Observation-group (p < 0.05), and increased GSES scores, significantly higher in the Observation-group (p < 0.05). Observation-group had less complications (4.08% vs. 17.39% in the Control-group; p < 0.05), and decreased FSS and EPDS scores (p < 0.05).

Surgical complications and their impact for gynecological surgeons

OBJECTIVES

Major clinical incidents can impact the healthcare professionals involved. This is of particular relevance in surgery, with the operating room being a high-risk zone for complications; however, there is few available data on how surgeons may be affected. The current study examined the impact of surgical complications on surgeon traumatic stress levels, emotional state, job performance, and coping strategies.

METHODS

A questionnaire to evaluate the impact of surgical complications on surgeon traumatic stress levels, emotional state, and job performance was developed by our team and communicated via an online link to gynecological surgeons.

RESULTS

A total of 72 gynecologic surgeons completed the questionnaire. Five percent had a Peritraumatic Distress Inventory (PDI) score of ≥15, revealing a high stress level, and 12% had an Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) score of ≥36, indicating acute traumatic stress. Our results show that following surgical incidents, surgeons receive support primarily from another surgical team member and that surgical practice may be impacted, leading in some cases to detrimental effects on patient care, notably reduced radicality in some surgical procedures.

CONCLUSION

Surgeons may experience acute traumatic stress after serious surgical complications. Increased awareness of the negative consequences on surgeon emotional well-being is required, as well as improved access to support mechanisms. The study was approved by local ethics committee (IRB00013412, "CHU de Clermont Ferrand IRB #1," institutional review board number 2022-CF004).

The Relationship between Psychological Stress and Emotional State in Chinese University Students during COVID-19: The Moderating Role of Physical Exercise

OBJECTIVE

To explore the relationship between psychological stress and the emotional state of Chinese college students and the moderating effect of physical exercise.

METHODS

Students in a university in Jiangsu Province were randomly selected for the survey, and questionnaires were administered using the Physical Activity Rating Scale, the Profile of Mood States, and the Chinese College Student Psychological Stress Scale. A total of 715 questionnaires were distributed, and 494 valid questionnaires were returned. Among the students, there were 208 (42.1%) males and 286 (57.9%) females, with a mean age of 19.27 years (SD = 1.06).

RESULTS

We found a significant negative correlation between physical exercise and psychological stress (r = -0.637, p < 0.001); a significant negative correlation between physical exercise and emotional state (r = -0.032, p < 0.001); and a significant positive correlation between psychological stress and emotional state (r = 0.51, p < 0.001). Physical exercise negatively moderates the relationship between psychological stress and emotional state (B = -0.012, p < 0.01, ΔR² = 0.007).

CONCLUSION

Physical exercise is negatively correlated with both emotional state and psychological stress. Physical exercise can reduce the influence of psychological stress on emotional state and promote emotional health.

Physiological Synchrony Predict Task Performance and Negative Emotional State during a Three-Member Collaborative Task

Evaluation of team performance in naturalistic contexts has gained popularity during the last two decades. Among other human factors, physiological synchrony has been adopted to investigate team performance and emotional state when engaged in collaborative team tasks. A variety of methods have been reported to quantify physiological synchrony with a varying degree of correlation with the collaborative team task performance and emotional state, reflected in the inconclusive nature of findings. Little is known about the effect of the choice of synchrony calculation methods and the level of analysis on these findings. In this research work, we investigate the relationship between outcomes of different methods to quantify physiological synchrony, emotional state, and team performance of three-member teams performing a collaborative team task. The proposed research work employs dyadic-level linear (cross-correlation) and team-level non-linear (multidimensional recurrence quantification analysis) synchrony calculation measures to quantify task performance and the emotional state of the team. Our investigation indicates that the physiological synchrony estimated using multidimensional recurrence quantification analysis revealed a significant negative relationship between the subjectively reported frustration levels and overall task performance. However, no relationship was found between cross-correlation-based physiological synchrony and task performance. The proposed research highlights that the method of choice for physiological synchrony calculation has direct impact on the derived relationship of team task performance and emotional states.

Intervention Effect of Aerobic Exercise on Physical Fitness, Emotional State and Mental Health of Drug Addicts: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

This study aims to discuss evidence for the efficacy of aerobic exercise in reducing drug addiction and improving the physical and mental health of drug addicts. We systematically searched several online databases as of the end of September 2022, including PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, CNKI, VIP, CBM, and Wanfang. All articles were identified, screened and included according to the inclusion or exclusion criteria. The Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions was used as a criterion for assessing the methodological quality of included studies. Random and fixed effects models were used for the analysis of standard mean differences (SMD) or mean differences (MD) with their 95% confidence intervals (CI). A total of 27 studies involving 2022 drug addicts were finally included in the analysis. The results of the meta-analysis showed that aerobic exercise could improve the physical fitness [body fat percentage: MD = -0.74, 95%CI (-1.40, -0.08), vital capacity: MD = 213.79, 95%CI (46.28, 381.29), muscle force: MD = 1.21, 95%CI (0.34, 2.08), flexibility: MD = 4.61, 95%CI (2.98, 6.25), balance: MD = 9.95, 95%CI (6.29, 13.62)], regulate the systolic blood pressure: MD = -4.38, 95%CI (-7.08, -1.68), diastolic blood pressure: MD = -2.66, 95% CI (-3.82, -1.51), beats per minute: MD =-1.92, 95%CI (-3.19, -0.65); emotional state [anxiety: MD = -4.56, 95% CI (-5.67, -3.45), depression: MD = -3.28, 95%CI (-5.16, -1.39), drug craving: SMD= -1.68,95% CI(-2.56, -0.80)], and promote the mental health [anxiety: MD = -0.22, 95%CI (-0.33, -0.11), obsessive-compulsive: MD = -0.26, 95%CI (-0.50, -0.03), somatization: MD = -0.21, 95%CI (-0.27, -0.14), depression: MD = -0.21, 95%CI (-0.28, -0.15), psychoticcism: MD = -0.12, 95%CI (-0.18, -0.06), phobic anxiety: MD = -0.11, 95%CI (-0.16, -0.07), paranoid ideation: MD = -0.09, 95%CI (-0.15, -0.02), interpersonal sensitivity: MD = -0.16, 95%CI (-0.22, -0.10), hostility: MD = -0.12, 95%CI (-0.18, -0.05)], with statistically significant differences(p < 0.05)] of drug addicts. Thus, aerobic exercise could effectively improve the physical fitness, emotional state and mental health of drug addicts, and reduce their drug addiction. For clinical practitioners and researchers, this study could provide more reliable evidence for addiction treatment.

Anxious and Angry: Early Emotional Adaptation of Medical Students in a Situational Crisis on the Example of the COVID-19 Pandemic

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic is an example of a situational crisis resulting in emotional destabilization. The aim of the study was to analyze changes in the level of anxiety and anger in medical students during the early adaptation to the situational crisis, and to estimate the risk factors for fear and anger in this group.

METHODS

Participants were 949 medical students (M = 22.88, SD = 4.10) in the first stage on March 2020, and 748 (M = 22.57, SD = 3.79) in the second stage on June 2020. The STAI, STAXI-2, and our own questionnaire were used.

RESULTS

First vs the second stage: anxiety state (p < 0.001), anger state (p = 0.326), and feeling angry (p < 0.05). The regression model (F(14.1681) = 79.01, p < 0.001) for the level of anxiety state explains 39% of the dependent variable variance (r² = 0.39). The model for the anger-state level (F(6.1689) = 68.04, p < 0.001)-19% (r² = 0.19).

CONCLUSIONS

During the early adaptation to the situational crisis, the general level of anxiety decreased, but anger was at the same level. The anxiety was explained by contact with potentially or objective infected persons, and the level of anger was based on the need for greater social support.

Assessment of the Emotional State of Parents of Children Starting the Vojta Therapy in the Context of the Physical Activity-A Pilot Study

The aim of the study was to assess the emotional state of parents at the moment of starting therapy for their children using the Vojta method in the context of the physical activity undertaken by the parents. The study involved 68 parents (37 mothers and 31 fathers) of children with central coordination disorders (CCD) presenting for consultation and therapy using the Vojta method. The authors' questionnaires, the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), the Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS), and the Inventory to Measure Coping Strategies with Stress (Mini-COPE) were used. As many as 84% of mothers and 77% of fathers presented high level of perceived stress. Comparative analysis showed a statistically significant difference in anxiety and life satisfaction between the groups of mothers and fathers studied. Taking declared physical activity into account, there was a statistically significant difference in stress and anxiety in the mothers' group and a statistically significant difference in mood and life satisfaction in the fathers' group. Promoting physical activity among parents of children with CCD can be helpful in maintaining better psycho-physical conditions and can also be a good tool in combating stress in difficult situations, such as the illness and therapy of a child.

The specifics of interaction with patients and their relatives as a factor of emotional condition of oncologists

The paper considers issue of professional burnout of oncologists through the prism of their relationship with patients and their close relatives. The study was carried out using direct and online sociological survey method. The sample included 534 specialists being in constant contact with cancer patients. The results revealed pronounced prevalence of such main burnout domains as emotional exhaustion (55%), depersonalization (19%), reduction of professional achievements (22%). The most common methods of dealing with stress were recreation, sports, communication with immediate relatives, hobbies, walking (7-20%), 4% used alcohol. The high frequency of patient requests to oncologist for psychological support (88%) was established as well as difficulties in communication between doctor and patient because available communication skills are not always sufficient for 76% of oncologists. The majority of respondents support idea of patient need for psychological support and its effectiveness for their treatment and physical and emotional conditions. The similar trends were found in case of close relatives of patients. At the same time some oncologists expressed negative, stigmatizing attitudes towards patients in need of psychological support that requires additional educational work. In oncologists, even when need for psychological support is expressed by patient, willingness to seek it is low: a third of respondents are "rather not ready" to see psychologist even if they had this opportunity. The results meet data of other researches data and reveal that interaction with patients and their relatives is one of the main factors affecting the emotional state of oncologists. Based on study results as well as on publication analysis, comprehensive solution was proposed to implement psychological oncologic service in Russia, which, on one hand, will allow to provide support to cancer patients and their relatives, and on the other hand, will conduct specific training for oncologists concerning skills of psychologically safe communication with patients and coping with negative experiences.

Embodiment of an Emotional State Concurs with a Stress-Induced Reconsolidation Impairment Effect on an Auditory Verbal Word-List Memory

Stress alters memory. Understanding how and when acute stress improves or impairs memory is a challenge. Stressors can affect memory depending on a combination of factors. Typically, mild stressors and stress hormones might promote consolidation of memory processing and impair memory retrieval. However, studies have shown that during reconsolidation, stressors may either enhance or impair recalled memory. We propose that a function of reconsolidation is to induce changes in the behavioral expression of memory. Here, we adapted the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT) to evaluate the effect of cold pressor stress (CPS) during the reconsolidation of this declarative memory. A decay in memory performance attributable to forgetting was found at the time of memory reactivation 5 d after training (day 6). Contrary to our initial predictions, the administration of CPS after memory reactivation impaired long-term memory expression (day 7), an effect dependent on the presence of a mismatch during Reactivation Session. No differences in recognition tests were found. To assess putative sources of the negative memory modulation effects induced during reconsolidation, current emotional state was evaluated immediately after Testing Session (day 7). An increase in arousal was revealed only when CPS was administered concurrently with memory reactivation-labilization. The possibility of integration during reconsolidation of independent associations of these emotive components in the trace is a critical factor in modulating neutral memories during reconsolidation by stressors.

The Relationship between Mindfulness Practices and the Psychological State and Performance of Kyokushin Karate Athletes

The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between mindfulness practices and the psychological state and qualification of kyokushin karate athletes. The survey was conducted using the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS-15) and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21). The study involved 371 Lithuanian kyokushin karate athletes (of which 59.3% were male and 40.7% were female; 71.4% of research participants have practiced this sport for 11 and more years and have the 1st dan or a higher belt). The results of the study showed a positive impact of mindfulness in reducing stress experienced by athletes, improving their psychological state, and enhancing their athletic performance. A moderate negative correlation was identified between stress, anxiety, and mindfulness, and while the mindfulness score was increasing, the severity level of depression was decreasing. Meanwhile, the correlation of the meditation effect and anxiety with kyokushin karate 0–7 kyu belt was very weak but statistically significant. The research results could be useful not only for athletes and their coaches but also for sports organizations. After analysing the benefits of mindfulness for kyokushin karate athletes, mindfulness practices are proposed for the effective improvement of athletes’ physical and psychological state when preparing for professional-level competitions.

Relationship between emotional state and masticatory system function in a group of healthy volunteers aged 18-21

OBJECTIVE

To determine the role of emotional state in the masticatory system function in a group of young adults.

METHODS

Ninety-six generally healthy randomly selected students aged 18-21 were examined. They were subjected to a questionnaire survey determining their emotional state, clinical examination, and instrumental diagnostics (EMG, Cadiax Compact, JVA).

RESULTS

The stress symptoms group revealed a greater intensity of neck and shoulder muscles pain (p < 0.05) and an increase of electrical potential of the masseter muscles in maximal voluntary clench (p < 0.05). They reported more often headache (p < 0.001), tension/contracture of the head, neck and nape (p < 0.05), and pain while opening the mouth wide (p < 0.05). The values of parameters obtained in the instrumental diagnostics did not reveal differences between the groups.

CONCLUSION

Stressful situations increase muscular tension but do not have a direct impact on the temporomandibular joints function.

Nursing Students' Emotional State and Perceived Competence During the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Vital Role of Teacher and Peer Support

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the shutdown of society and created sudden and long-lasting changes in teaching practices, forcing many nursing students to study remotely at home. These students’ relatedness with their teachers and peers has been limited and mainly online. Several studies have indicated that students’ emotional states and mental health have been negatively affected by the pandemic, representing a serious challenge for many countries. Because they use only digital tools, online students have perceived a decline in teacher and peer support. Likewise, these students have reported feelings of sadness, loneliness, anxiety, and stress, affecting their learning and competence development.

Aims

To investigate the associations between peer support, teacher support, emotional state, and perceived competence in nursing students during the pandemic.

Methods

This cross-sectional study collected quantitative survey data from 329 nursing students at a large university in Norway. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test seven associations among peer support, teacher support, emotional state, and perceived competence.

Results

Teacher support had a significant direct effect on perceived competence, while peer support almost had a significant direct effect. However, the emotional state was directly affected by peer support and had a direct impact on perceived competence. Hence, teacher and peer support is important to nursing students’ perceived competence.

Conclusion

During the COVID-19 pandemic, both peer and teacher support can significantly support students’ competence development. Therefore, students should utilize the support of their teachers and peers in a structured manner to bolster their competence development.

Associations between Dairy Herds' Qualitative Behavior and Aspects of Herd Health, Stockperson and Farm Factors-A Cross-Sectional Exploration

The affective state is an integrated aspect of farm animal welfare, which is understood as the animals' perception of their living environment and of their internal biological functioning. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to explore animal-internal and external factors potentially influencing dairy cows' affective state. For this purpose, qualitative behavior assessments (QBA) describing the animals' body language were applied at herd level on 25 dairy farms. By means of principal component analysis (PCA), scores of PC1 (QBAscores) were determined for further analyses. From monthly milk recordings (MR) one year retrospectively, prevalences of udder and metabolic health impairments were calculated. Factors of housing, management, and human-animal contact were recorded via interviews and observations. A multivariable regression was calculated following a univariable preselection of factors. No associations were found between MR indicators and QBAscores. However, more positive QBAscores were associated with bedded cubicles or straw yards compared to raised cubicles, increased voluntary stockperson contact with the cows, and fixation of cows during main feeding times, the latter contributing to the explanatory model, but not being significant. These results underline the importance of lying comfort, positive human-animal relationship and reduction of competition during feeding for the well-being of dairy cows.

Does the Number of Likes Affect Adolescents' Emotions? The Moderating Role of Social Comparison and Feedback-Seeking on Instagram

Instagram is a social networking site (SNS) that facilitate the social-comparison and feedback-seeking (SCFS) processes, which are particularly relevant during adolescence. Likes represent numeric evaluative feedback and seem to be considered as a form of social reward. In this research we examine some psychosocial factors that could influence the Instagram usage intensity (i.e. SCFS and motivations) and analyze the moderating role of SCFS in the relationship between the number of likes on posts and adolescents' emotions. The sample consisted of 182 adolescent students aged between 13 and 18 years (M = 15.35 years, SD = 1.11). The results show that the social interaction, storage, and gossip motivations mediate the relationship between SCFS and Instagram usage intensity, and that the influence of the number of likes on emotions depended on the degree of SCFS. The discussion of the findings emphasizes that likes have a special social and affective relevance for adolescents with high SCFS, who might become more emotionally susceptible to the feedback they received from their audience on Instagram. This research could be a precedent to future research and the development of intervention programs based on the responsible use of SNSs in an educative context.

[Optimization of neonatal hospital care for very preterm babies while supporting early parent-child relationships]

Research shows that not only medical but also psychological factors such as parents' emotional state, their parenting skills, quality of very early relationships with the infant influence child's physical and mental health and development. The support of good infant-mother relationships is an essential part of early family-centered help to premature babies. The article reviews existing evidence-based programs of neonatal care and support of early mother-child relationships for preterm babies at the hospital. It covers three main directions: discussing with parents prognosis of a child's health and development; supporting natural conditions of child development, and including parents into child early care and observation. Data presented in the article shows that if using each of the mentioned above directions that are important for quality early care and interaction, positive dynamics is seen both on parents' and preterm infant's side. Designated programs can be widely implemented in neonatal intensive care units for children born before term, including those with extremely low body weight when they achieve clinical stabilization. The material presented in the article may be used as the scientific base for implementing in Russian Federation early care system both at the hospital level and, later, in the family environment. It also constitutes new directions for research of preterm babies and their parents.

The effects of emotional trait factors on simulated flight performance under an acute psychological stress situation

Objective. Pilots are commonly exposed to some sources of emotional and cognitive stressors, especially for flight cadets, which have an important influence on flight safety. The present study aimed to study the relationship between emotional trait factors, emotional state, mental workload and simulated flight performance (SFP) under an acute psychological stress situation. Methods. Fifty-five undergraduates were included in the study. The Wong and Law emotional intelligence scale (WLEIS), state-trait anxiety inventory (STAI), stress rating questionnaire (SRQ) and National Aeronautics and Space Administration task load index (NASA-TLX) were used as data collection tools. Nine hours of simulated flight training were conducted in a simulator of the Type-6 Primary Trainer (Aviation University Air Force, China). The simulated flight assessment was taken as the acute psychological stressor. Results. SFP was negatively correlated with tensity and state anxiety. Emotional intelligence (EI) indirectly affected the SFP mediated by emotional state and workload, and emotional state had a mediating effect on the relationship between trait anxiety and SFP. Conclusions. The findings indicated that emotional trait factors (EI and trait anxiety) may indirectly affect SFP under an acute psychological stress situation, and emotional state (tensity and state anxiety) and mental workload played an important mediating role.

Effects of the COVID-19 Health Crisis on Sports Practice, Life Quality, and Emotional Status in Spanish High-Performance Athletes

Spain is one of the many countries highly affected by the COVID-19 crisis, establishing very restrictive measures with a complete lockdown for more than 3 months. This situation forced the complete closure of sport practice and national or international competitions, leading to a negative impact on physical and psychological health of high-performance athletes. Therefore, the objectives of this study were (a) to determine the effects of the COVID-19 health crisis on Spanish high-performance athletes in terms of sports practice, life quality, and emotional state and (b) to identify the profile with the greatest difficulties during and after the lockdown. A sample of 130 high-performance athletes aged between 18 and 34 years (67 women and 63 men) participated in this study (83.1% achieved a medal in National–International elite competitions; 86.9% were considered student-athletes). Measures included socio-demographic data through a 5-dimension ad hoc survey: physical activity and exercise using an adapted version from the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ); health status and limitations using an adapted version of SF-12 Health Questionnaire; Perceived stress (Short-PSS); and Mood States (29-item POMS). All participants have shown a significant decrease pre–post-lockdown in both health and performance perception, especially in women, individual athletes, medalists, and student-athletes. Strong limitations of training, attention, and motivation as well as a moderate negative emotional state during lockdown were reported, in women, individual athletes, medalists, and student-athletes. Even with an improved emotional state and energy level in the post-lockdown period, moderate-to-high stress scores were reported by women and medalists. Our findings highlight the importance of paying attention to the physical and psychological health of elite athletes on three profiles: team athletes (due to social distance), student-athletes (dual-career issues), and women athletes (prevalence of implicit gender inequalities in sport).

"Stay at Home" in Italy during the COVID-19 Outbreak: A Longitudinal Study on Individual Well-Being among Different Age Groups

The restrictions imposed by the Italian government because of the coronavirus outbreak have been shown to be demanding on the Italian population. Data were collected at four different time points from 29 March 2020 to 3 May 2020 and during the final follow-up survey on 12 October 2020. In the present study, we provided longitudinal evidence on the relationship between the lockdown and mental health dimensions, such as emotional state, perceived stress, and time perspective, for three age groups. The results allowed us to observe their psychological status from different perspectives at five different time points. Notably, a negative effect of the lockdown individual well-beings emerged as a trend, and differences in individual adaptation strategies to a prolonged stressful situation were observed at the follow-up. Indeed, pairwise comparisons between age groups showed that the young adult group (18-23 years old) seemed to be the most psychologically affected by the lockdown. The findings are discussed according to the most recent literature on the topic. To the best of our knowledge, this is one of the first longitudinal studies carried out in Italy concerning the general psychological effects of the coronavirus lockdown.

Emotional Contagion: A Brief Overview and Future Directions

Social interactions can trigger emotional contagion between individuals resulting in behavioral synchrony. Emotional contagion can be a very effective and attractive strategy in communication and advertising, and understanding the mechanisms underlying emotional contagion can help marketers to improve their commercial approaches or develop better ones. The purpose of this study is to review and classify the various methodologies and theoretical approaches on emotional contagion, identify the best practices in this domain, and identify ways of gaging and measuring emotional contagion. The study is based on a mini literature review. We identify different mechanisms and approaches to emotional contagion described in the literature. Emotional contagion can be triggered by facial expressions, indirect human interactions, and/or by observing other people's behavior in direct and indirect interactions. Furthermore, emotional contagion can be triggered physiologically or neurologically by synchronizing with the emotional state of others during human interactions. Regarding the assessment and measurement of emotional contagion, we argue that methods based on neuroscience tools are much more accurate and effective than methods based on traditional research approaches. The study identifies guidelines for research on commercial communication through emotional contagion that can be especially interesting for academia and marketing practitioners. The findings are important for field marketers interested in developing new individualized approaches in their commercial strategies and marketing in general. In addition, the study can become the basis of research that further refines and compares the efficacy of the various techniques and tools involved.

Consequences of Lockdown During COVID-19 Pandemic in Lifestyle and Emotional State of Children in Argentina

The implications of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) lockdown measurements and social isolation in children and their parents are still unknown. The aims of this study were to examine the impact of COVID-19 lockdown on emotional state, feelings and lifestyle of children and their parents, to explore the association between parental characteristics and child well-being and to examine whether the impact of lockdown depends on socio-economic status. Parents completed an online survey including data about socio-demographic information, parent and child feelings and lifestyle during lockdown. Logistic regression and correlation analysis were used to establish associations between variables. In total, 814 parents with children between 4 and 11 were included in the study. According to parents, 69.5% of the children showed changes in their emotional state, 55.3% altered their routine and 62.6% showed sleep disorders. Families with lower socio-economic status were more worried about health, shortage of food and household income (p < 0.01). Parent and children concern about food/essential items were highly associated [OR (CI 95%) 13.0 (6.81, 26.5), p < 0.01]. Adverse children's emotional state was associated with parental feeling of loneliness (r = 0.35) and inversely associated with keeping a routine (r = -0.11). Sleep changes were inversely associated with keeping a routine and having a balcony/garden (r = -0.53 and -0.16). We conclude that lockdown affected emotional state and lifestyle of children and parents, which were strongly related. Routine and positive parental attitude supported children's well-being. Economic issues were an important concern in families with lower socio-economic status. Our findings can help to promote child health during lockdown.

Anger management: pSI has a say in it

In this issue of Neuron, Zhu et al. (2021) reveal that activities in posterior substantia innominate (pSI) neurons that project to the periaqueductal gray (PAG) are both necessary and sufficient to drive aggressive attacks in mice under various conditions.

Ultrasonic vocalizations in mice: relevance for ethologic and neurodevelopmental disorders studies

Mice use ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) to communicate each other and to convey their emotional state. USVs have been greatly characterized in specific life phases and contexts, such as mother isolation-induced USVs for pups or female-induced USVs for male mice during courtship. USVs can be acquired by means of specific tools and later analyzed on the base of both quantitative and qualitative parameters. Indeed, different ultrasonic call categories exist and have already been defined. The understanding of different calls meaning is still missing, and it will represent an essential step forward in the field of USVs. They have long been studied in the ethological context, but recently they emerged as a precious instrument to study pathologies characterized by deficits in communication, in particular neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), such as autism spectrum disorders. This review covers the topics of USVs characteristics in mice, contexts for USVs emission and factors that modulate their expression. A particular focus will be devoted to mouse USVs in the context of NDDs. Indeed, several NDDs murine models exist and an intense study of USVs is currently in progress, with the aim of both performing an early diagnosis and to find a pharmacological/behavioral intervention to improve patients' quality of life.

The influence of motivation and emotion on sensorimotor rhythm-based brain-computer interface performance

While decades of research have investigated and technically improved brain-computer interface (BCI)-controlled applications, relatively little is known about the psychological aspects of brain-computer interfacing. In 35 healthy students, we investigated whether extrinsic motivation manipulated via monetary reward and emotional state manipulated via video and music would influence behavioral and psychophysiological measures of performance with a sensorimotor rhythm (SMR)-based BCI. We found increased task-related brain activity in extrinsically motivated (rewarded) as compared with nonmotivated participants but no clear effect of emotional state manipulation. Our experiment investigated the short-term effect of motivation and emotion manipulation in a group of young healthy subjects, and thus, the significance for patients in the locked-in state, who may be in need of a BCI, remains to be investigated.

Welfare of broiler chickens reared in two different industrial house types during the winter season in Southern Brazil

1. The following trial compared broiler chicken welfare in closed-sided (CS) versus open-sided (OS) industrial house types during the winter season in the South of Brazil.2. Ten flocks in each house type were evaluated as follows: a) bird health: contact dermatitis on the breast and abdominal areas (CDE), bird soiling (BSO), footpad dermatitis (FPD), hock burn (HBU), lameness (LAM), fractures (FRA), bruising (BRU), scratches (SCR), dead on arrival (DOA), and diseases (DIS); b) house environmental measurements: relative humidity (RHU), temperature (TEM), air velocity (AVE), illuminance (ILL), ammonia concentration (NH₃), and carbon dioxide concentration (CO₂), and c) bird behaviour and affective states: bird behaviour (BBE), touch test (TTE), and qualitative behaviour assessment (QBA).3. Statistical analyses were based on regression models for CDE, BSO, FPD, HBU, LAM and generalised linear models for DOA, FRA, BRU, SCR, and DIS. The Mann-Whitney test was used for RHU, TEM, AVE, ILL, NH₃, CO₂, and the t-test for TTE and LMO, with a specific regression model for BBE data and Principal Component Analysis for QBA.4. According to odds ratio for worse scores for CS relative to OS, birds were less likely to have severe scores for CDE (P = 0.040 and P = 0.007), BSO (P = 0.031, P = 0.016, and P = 0.038), and HBU (P = 0.017), and had higher median values for AVE (2.3, 0.0-7.8 m s^-1 vs. 0.0, 0.0-4.3 m s^-1), lower NH₃ concentration (9.0, 0.0-64.0 ppm vs. 12.0, 0.0-60.0 ppm) and TTE scores (98, 96-100 vs. 67, 25-100). Worse results were observed in CS houses for higher stocking density (13.8 ± 0.2 birds/m² vs. 12.0 ± 0.2 birds/m²), RHU (74.5, 50.7-99.9% vs 72.3, 47.4-99.9%), and TEM (23.9, 14.6-29.2°C vs. 21.7, 12.9-30.1°C), lower ILL (16.0, 1.0-60.0 lx vs. 161.0, 8.0-2380.0 lx), less drinking (P = 0.007), more inactive behaviour (P < 0.001) and lower positive emotions, according to QBA (P = 0.028).5. In the studied region and season, CS houses seemed to offer fewer welfare problems in terms of the health indicators; however, OS houses showed fewer behavioural restrictions and higher positive emotional states.

The Tactile-Visual Conflict Processing and Its Modulation by Tactile-Induced Emotional States: An Event-Related Potential Study

This experiment used event-related potentials (ERPs) to study the tactile-visual information conflict processing in a tactile-visual pairing task and its modulation by tactile-induced emotional states. Eighteen participants were asked to indicate whether the tactile sensation on their body matched or did not match the expected tactile sensation associated with the object depicted in an image. The type of tactile-visual stimuli (matched vs. mismatched) and the valence of tactile-induced emotional states (positive vs. negative) were manipulated following a 2 × 2 factorial design. Electrophysiological analyses revealed a mismatched minus matched negative difference component between 420 and 620 ms after stimulus onset in the negative tactile-induced emotional state condition. This ND420-620 component was considered as a sign of the cross-modal conflict processing during the processing of incongruent tactile-visual information. In contrast, no significant mismatched minus matched negative difference component was found in the positive tactile-induced emotional state condition. Together, these results support the hypothesis that a positive emotional state induced by a positive tactile stimulation improves tactile-visual conflict processing abilities.

Wearable Technologies for Mental Workload, Stress, and Emotional State Assessment during Working-Like Tasks: A Comparison with Laboratory Technologies

The capability of monitoring user’s performance represents a crucial aspect to improve safety and efficiency of several human-related activities. Human errors are indeed among the major causes of work-related accidents. Assessing human factors (HFs) could prevent these accidents through specific neurophysiological signals’ evaluation but laboratory sensors require highly-specialized operators and imply a certain grade of invasiveness which could negatively interfere with the worker’s activity. On the contrary, consumer wearables are characterized by their ease of use and their comfortability, other than being cheaper compared to laboratory technologies. Therefore, wearable sensors could represent an ideal substitute for laboratory technologies for a real-time assessment of human performances in ecological settings. The present study aimed at assessing the reliability and capability of consumer wearable devices (i.e., Empatica E4 and Muse 2) in discriminating specific mental states compared to laboratory equipment. The electrooculographic (EOG), electrodermal activity (EDA) and photoplethysmographic (PPG) signals were acquired from a group of 17 volunteers who took part to the experimental protocol in which different working scenarios were simulated to induce different levels of mental workload, stress, and emotional state. The results demonstrated that the parameters computed by the consumer wearable and laboratory sensors were positively and significantly correlated and exhibited the same evidences in terms of mental states discrimination.

The Arousal Effect of Exclusionary and Inclusionary Situations on Social Affiliation Motivation and Its Subsequent Influence on Prosocial Behavior

Given the negative costs of exclusion and the relevance of belongingness for humans, the experience of exclusion influences social affiliation motivation, which in turn is a relevant predictor of prosocial behavior. Skin conductance is a typical measure of the arousal elicited by emotions. Hence, we argued that both inclusion and exclusion will increase skin conductance level due to the increase of either positive affect or anger affects, respectively. Moreover, we argued that emotional arousal is also related to social affiliation motivation and prosocial behavior. A total of 48 students were randomly allocated to either an inclusionary or exclusionary condition and their skin conductance levels were recorded during an experiment in which they completed an online questionnaire and played the game “Cyberball.” Results indicated that (a) individuals who perceived high exclusion felt angrier than individuals perceiving high inclusion, who feel positive affect; (b) no differences were evidenced in terms of skin conductance between exclusion and inclusion situations; (c) over-aroused individuals were less motivated to affiliate; and (d) individuals with lower affiliation motivation behaved in a less prosocial way. The results were congruent to the argument that behaving prosocially may be a way to gain the desired affiliation.

Influence of Pain on the Quality of Life and Disease Acceptance in Patients with Complicated Diabetic Foot Syndrome

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to evaluate the relationship between pain and quality of life and illness acceptance, anxiety and depression in a group of patients with complicated diabetic foot syndrome, following lower limb amputation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The studies were carried out in three stages: 7 days, 6 months and 12 months after surgery in a group of 100 patients after amputation of the lower limb due to complications resulting from type 2 diabetes. The study was performed using standardised instruments: WHOQOL-BREF, the Acceptance of Illness Scale (AIS), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain intensity assessment.

RESULTS

Pain occurred in the examined patients throughout the study. The greatest intensity of pain was observed in the postoperative period and significantly weakened over time. Pain intensity was significantly associated with worse overall QoL perceived (-0.255, p=0.011/-0.283, p=0.005) and QoL scores in the physical and psychological domains at the first and second stage of the study (physical domains -0.257, p=0.011/-0.219, p=0.03 and psychological -0.22, p=0.029/-0.24/0.018). The intensity of pain negatively correlates with the acceptance of the disease in all three stages of the study, the greater the severity of pain, the lower the acceptance of illness (-0.298, p=0.003/-0.326, p=0.001/-0.26, p=0.009). The occurrence of anxiety and depression is highly dependent on the severity of pain, especially at the first and second stage of the study (anxiety 0.203, p=0.045/0.257, p=0.01, depression 0.299, p=0.003/0.253, p=0.012). The stronger the pain, the greater the severity of mood disorders.

CONCLUSION

Pain and its severity are associated with QoL in the patients with complicated diabetic foot syndrome following lower limb amputation. Disease acceptance was lower in patients experiencing more severe pain at all stages of the study. There is an association of pain with the occurrence of anxiety and depression in amputees, especially 6 months after surgery.

The Click Production of Captive Yangtze Finless Porpoises (Neophocaena asiaeorientalis asiaorientalis) Is Influenced by Social and Environmental Factors

Simple Summary

Yangtze finless porpoises’ high-frequency clicks have often been studied and used for wild population surveys. However, the influence of captive environmental and social variables on Yangtze finless porpoises’ production of such signals has never been investigated. In the present study, the click production of a group of captive Yangtze finless porpoises was analyzed across various contexts. This click production was significantly impacted by temporal factors (season), social factors (social separation), and environmental factors (training sessions, presence of enrichment, noise, presence of visitors). The patterns found in this study may be useful for further monitoring of the welfare of captive groups of Yangtze finless porpoises (e.g., welfare assessments) as well as for improving wild surveys (e.g., more accurate interpretation of click density).

Abstract

Yangtze finless porpoises use high-frequency clicks to navigate, forage, and communicate. The way in which click production may vary depending on social or environmental context has never been investigated. A group of five captive Yangtze finless porpoises was monitored for one year, and 107 h of audio recordings was collected under different conditions. Using a MATLAB-generated interface, we extracted click density (i.e., number of clicks per minute) from these recordings and analyzed its variation depending on the context. As expected, click density increased as the number of animals present increased. The click density did not exhibit diurnal variations but did have seasonal variations, with click density being highest in summer and fall. Yangtze finless porpoises produced more clicks when socially separated than when not (136% more), during training/feeding sessions than outside of such sessions (312% more), when enrichment was provided (265% more on average), and when noisy events occurred rather than when no unusual event occurred (22% more). The click density decreased when many visitors were present in the facility (up to 35% less). These results show that Yangtze finless porpoises modulate their click production depending on the context and suggest that their echolocation activity and their emotional state may be linked to these changes. Such context-dependent variations also indicate the potential usefulness of monitoring acoustical activity as part of a welfare assessment tool in this species. Additionally, the click density variation found in captivity could be useful for understanding click rate variations of wild populations that are hardly visible.

Psychometric Properties of the Psychological State Test for Athletes (TEP)

This study has two objectives: to validate an adapted online version of the Psychological State Test (TEP, in its Spanish acronym); and to assess differences in pre-competitive psychological state profiles between amateur and professional athletes in team sports. The TEP questionnaire is an instrument which is used to assess, in a quick and simple fashion, the psychological state of athletes prior to competing. Its psychometric properties were evaluated by means of an analysis of internal consistency, an Exploratory Factor Analysis and a Confirmatory Factor Analysis. The EFA’s results showed a factorial structure consisting of two principal factors and reliability coefficients, both globally and at the factor level, which can be considered acceptable (global α = 0.81; Factor 1 α = 0.85; and Factor 2 α = 0.73). The CFA confirmed the model proposed by the EFA so that the items were distributed around these factors, giving rise to one factor which includes variables that have a positive relationship with performance, and another with variables that negatively affect performance. Meanwhile, regarding the difference between the pre-competitive psychological state of amateurs and professionals, professional athletes presented higher levels of Motivation (p = 0.5 and d = −0.23). It is concluded that the TEP is a suitable tool for the evaluation of pre-competitive psychological states. However, in future research, this study should be complemented by analyzing the TEP’s predictive validity in terms of the performance of athletes and/or teams, as well as its use as a tool available to athletes and coaches.

Emotional State During Tasting Affects Emotional Experience Differently and Robustly for Novel and Familiar Foods

Emotional state during food consumption is expected to affect food pleasantness. We hypothesize that a negative emotional state reduces food pleasantness and more so for novel foods than for familiar foods because novel foods have not yet been associated with previous emotions. Furthermore, we expect this effect to be stronger when judging the food again from memory without tasting. We induced a positive emotional state in 34 participants by telling them that they earned a monetary bonus and induced a negative emotional state in 35 other participants by subjecting them to a social stress test. After this emotion induction, both groups tasted and rated a (for them) novel soup (sumashi soup) and a familiar soup (vegetable soup). Several explicit and implicit measures of food pleasantness (rated valence, EsSense25, willingness-to-take-home and sip size) indicated that while the negative emotion group did not experience the soups as less pleasant than the positive emotion group, there was an interaction between food familiarity and emotional group. The positive emotion group experienced novel and familiar soups as equally pleasant, whereas the negative emotion group experienced the novel soup as relatively unpleasant and the familiar soup as pleasant. The latter result is consistent with a comforting effect of a familiar taste in a stressful situation. This effect remained in the ratings given 1 week later based on memory and even after retasting. Our results show that emotional state affects food pleasantness differently for novel and familiar foods and that such an effect can be robust.

Evaluation of the effects of the surgical removal of impacted third molars on the emotional state of individuals with Beck depression inventory

Aims

In this study, using Beck depression inventory (BDI), we aimed to determine alterations in the emotional state of patients who had impacted third molars (M3) extracted owing to postoperative pain, edema, and trismus.In this prospective clinical trial, which was conducted at Tokat Gaziosmanpasa University, Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Maxillofacial Surgery Clinic, we studied 60 patients (30 males and 30 females), who were 18-47 years old (the mean of 25.6 years of age). The patients with M3 with moderate preoperative pain intensities, edema, and maximal mouth opening (MMO) data were recorded, and BDI was applied to determine their emotional states. The patients were re-evaluated using BDI to detect alterations in their emotional state owing to pain intensity, edema, and trismus on postoperative second and seventh day.

Subjects and Methods

Descriptive statistical analysis, Chi-square, and independent t-test were utilized to interpret the obtained data.

Results

According to our findings, a statistically significant relationship was observed between BDI scores and gender on the second postoperative day (P = 0.004), and between MMO and BDI scores on the second and seventh postoperative day (P = 0.012, P = 0.045). Pain intensity scores on the postoperative sixth hour and seventh day were significantly correlated with BDI scores on the postoperative second and seventh day (P = 0.000/ P = 0.000/P = 0.002/P = 0.004/P = 0.010/P = 0.017/P = 0.001/P = 0.000).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the pain and trismus owing to the M3 surgery were significantly correlated with an increase in the postoperative BDI scores.

Perceptions and Emotional State of Mothers of Children with and without Microcephaly after the Zika Virus Epidemic in Rural Caribbean Colombia

Zika virus (ZIKV) infection during pregnancy can cause neurological manifestations such as microcephaly. The aim of this study was to explore perceptions of ZIKV and mental health in women exposed to ZIKV during pregnancy in Colombia. This was a mixed-methods study based on structured interviews and psychological tests. Structured interviews were transcribed and analysed with Atlas Ti software. A grounded theory approach was applied. Quantitative analysis was performed with Statistical Package for Social Science, SPSS, V. 20. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Universidad de Córdoba, Montería. Seventeen women participated in the study; nine of them were mothers of children with microcephaly. Maternal age ranged from 16 to 41 years old. The main themes discussed during interviews were: feelings, support, sources of information, and consequences on children's health. Women with children affected by microcephaly showed worse mental health compared to women with normocephalic children. Maternal mental health worsened after 24 months from giving birth. Perceptions regarding disease severity and lack of knowledge were considered to affect maternal mental health. Social support and spirituality were key determinants for caregivers. Future research is needed to further study coping mechanisms and mental health outcomes over time by affected populations.

Body Contacts and Social Interactions in Captive Odontocetes Are Influenced by the Context: An Implication for Welfare Assessment

Simple Summary

Even though species differ in terms of personality traits and responses to external stimuli, welfare-oriented studies conducted on odontocetes are mostly focused on bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). Odontocetes are highly social animals; social behaviors are therefore interesting to investigate in relation to welfare. Video recording was conducted over a year on three groups of captive odontocetes, to record the frequency of social behaviors across different contexts. Captive odontocetes’ social behaviors, such as pectoral contacts, other body contacts, agonistic interactions or social play were influenced by the context and the patterns observed in this study suggest their potential usefulness to assess welfare in these animals, and that species and groups might react differently to a stimulus.

Abstract

Research on the welfare of captive odontocetes has increased in recent years, but has been mostly focused on bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). Few studies investigated potential welfare indicators using quantitative data linked to a range of conditions or stimuli that are thought to impact the animals’ emotional state. Since odontocetes are social animals that engage in various social interactions, these interactions might inform us on their welfare state. We investigated pectoral contact laterality and the effect of the context on several social behaviors in three groups of captive odontocetes (Yangtze finless porpoises, YFPs: Neophocaena asiaeorientalis asiaeorientalis; East-Asian finless porpoises, EAFPs: N. a. sunameri, and bottlenose dolphins, BDs). Animals exhibited patterns depending on the time of the day for most of the social behaviors we analyzed; social separation was associated with lower rates of social behaviors for the two analyzed groups (YFPs and BDs), the accessibility to several pools was associated with higher rates of social behaviors for BDs. The effect of enrichment, disturbances and public presence was less clear and strongly depended on the group, the type of enrichment and disturbance. Our results confirm that captive odontocetes’ social behaviors are influenced by the context, and that, depending on the group, some of them, such as pectoral contacts, other body contacts, agonistic interactions or social play exhibit consistent patterns across contexts. Monitoring these behaviors might be useful to adapt the captive management to each species and group. The different responses among the three studied groups confirm that species and groups react differently to a stimulus and therefore, management decisions should be species/group specific. We recommend that more studies should be conducted to validate our findings in other groups of odontocetes under human care.

Physiological State of Therapy Dogs during Animal-Assisted Activities in an Outpatient Setting

Therapy dogs are increasingly being incorporated into numerous clinical settings. However, there are only a handful of studies that have focused on the impact of animal-assisted activity or therapy sessions on the wellbeing of the therapy dogs. Furthermore, these studies show mixed results. The goal of this study was to provide an in-depth picture of the effects of these interactions on the dogs involved by considering multiple physiological measures known to be associated with emotional state (continuous heart rate, heart rate variability, pre- and post-session tympanic membrane temperatures, and salivary cortisol and oxytocin concentrations). Nineteen Mayo Clinic Caring Canine therapy dogs completed five 20-minute animal-assisted activity (AAA) visits each in an outpatient clinical setting (Mayo Clinic Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Clinic). From a physiological perspective, the dogs showed a neutral to positive response to the AAA sessions. Heart rate (HR) was significantly lower at the end of the session compared with the beginning of the session (F = 17.26, df1 = 1, df2 = 29.7, p = 0.0003). The right tympanic membrane temperature was lower post-session (F = 8.87, df1 = 1, df2 = 107, p = 0.003). All other emotional indicators remained stable between pre- and post-session. These results suggest that the dogs involved were not negatively affected by their participation in the AAA. Moreover, there was some evidence suggesting the dogs may have been in a more relaxed state at the end of the session (lower HR and lower right tympanic membrane temperature) compared to the beginning of the session.

Decreased Functional Connectivity Between the Left Amygdala and Frontal Regions Interferes With Reading, Emotional, and Executive Functions in Children With Reading Difficulties

INTRODUCTION

Dyslexia is a reading disorder characterized by significant difficulty in reading, as well as reports of altered executive functions (EF). Children with reading difficulties (RD) experience a broad range of social and emotional problems. Recently it was suggested that children with RD have altered functional connections within the amygdala, which is related to emotional processing. Altered brain laterality related to reading was previously reported in children with RD. Hence, we sought to determine the differences in functional connectivity between the right and left emotional network as related to emotional challenges and the other reported difficulties in reading and EF in children with RD compared to typical readers.

METHODS

Sixty-four 8 to 12 year old children, 27 children with RD and 37 age-matched typical readers, participated in the study. Reading, emotional, and EF abilities were assessed. Global efficiency of the emotional network was calculated and compared between the groups, and left vs. right functional connectivity of the amygdala was tested using the CONN toolbox. Functional connectivity measures were then associated with measures of reading, emotional, and EF abilities.

RESULTS

Children with RD showed significantly decreased emotional and EF abilities compared to typical readers. A negative correlation between reading, emotional, and EF abilities was determined in both groups. Neuroimaging results showed decreased global efficiency measures within the emotional network in children with RD, who also showed lower functional connectivity between the amygdala and the left and right frontal pole regions. Results also indicated increased functional connectivity of the right vs. left amygdala with left and right pre-central and post-central gyri regions, which were related to decreased reading, emotional, and EF abilities in both typical readers and children with RD.

CONCLUSION

The positive relationship between EF and emotional abilities in children with RD strengthens the relationship between EF difficulties and emotional stress, which in turn may lower EF abilities (monitoring, inhibition, and attention) as well as decreased reading abilities. The emotional challenges in children with RD were associated with decreased functional connectivity of the left amygdala with pre/post central gyrus and cognitive-control regions. These findings suggest that although the right hemisphere is thought to be related to emotional stress, it was the decreased control of the left hemisphere that was related to emotional disturbance in children with RD.

The Influence of the Teacher's Prosocial Skills on the Mindwandering, Creative Intelligence, Emotions, and Academic Performance of Secondary Students in the Area of Physical Education Classes

Physical Education classes are a key context for the development of creativity due to interactions with peers and the resolution of complex motor skills. Therefore, the aim of this study is to analyze the influence of the teacher's social behaviors on the mindwandering, emotional state, and academic performance of Physical Education students. The study involved 606 high school students and 36 physical education teachers. A structural equation model was used to analyze the relationship between the variables of the study. The results showed how the teacher's prosocial and antisocial behaviors had a negative influence on mindwandering. In turn, mindwandering negatively predicted creative intelligence. Likewise, creative intelligence positively predicted a positive emotional state and academic performance and negatively predicted a negative emotional state. Finally, a positive emotional state positively predicted academic performance, while a negative emotional state predicted it negatively. Therefore, the results achieved in the study showed how mindwandering should be promoted in the educational field as a means of encouraging creativity and therefore increasing the well-being of students, which is conducive to academic performance.

Investigation of a Standardized Qualitative Behaviour Assessment and Exploration of Potential Influencing Factors on the Emotional State of Dairy Calves

Simple Summary

Although welfare states of dairy calves are of public and scientific concern, no standardized protocol exists to assess the emotionality of these animals. Therefore, this study aimed at investigating and establishing a calf-specific term list for Qualitative Behavior Assessment (QBA), a technique that is already validated for assessing emotional states in many animal species. The statistically supported results showed that agreement can be reached among observers, terms showed varied results across farms, and evaluated emotional states could be linked to some explaining farm factors. Overall, results showed that calves have a neutral emotional state and profit from certain farm factors. However, we conclude that the assessment should be more widely used to gain more insight into calves’ welfare states and how their emotional state can be improved to a positive one.

Abstract

Assessing emotional states of dairy calves is an essential part of welfare assessment, but standardized protocols are absent. The present study aims at assessing the emotional states of dairy calves and establishing a reliable standard procedure with Qualitative Behavioral Assessment (QBA) and 20 defined terms. Video material was used to compare multiple observer results. Further, live observations were performed on 49 dairy herds in Denmark and Italy. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) identified observer agreement and QBA dimensions (PC). For achieving overall welfare judgment, PC1-scores were turned into the Welfare Quality (WQ) criterion ‘Positive Emotional State’. Finally, farm factors’ influence on the WQ criterion was evaluated by mixed linear models. PCA summarized QBA descriptors as PC1 ‘Valence’ and PC2 ‘Arousal’ (explained variation 40.3% and 13.3%). The highest positive descriptor loadings on PC1 was Happy (0.92) and Nervous (0.72) on PC2. The WQ-criterion score (WQ-C12) was on average 51.1 ± 9.0 points (0: worst to 100: excellent state) and ‘Number of calves’, ‘Farming style’, and ‘Breed’ explained 18% of the variability of it. We conclude that the 20 terms achieved a high portion of explained variation providing a differentiated view on the emotional state of calves. The defined term list proved to need good training for observer agreement.