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Liu S, Wang J, Chen S, Chai J, Wen J, Tian X, Chen N, Xu C. Vagal predominance correlates with mood state changes of winter-over expeditioners during prolonged Antarctic residence. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298751. [PMID: 38968274 PMCID: PMC11226091 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Winter-over expeditioners in Antarctica are challenged by various environmental and psycho-social stress factors, which may induce psychophysiological changes. The autonomic nervous system (ANS) plays a crucial role in the adaptation process under stress. However, the relationship between ANS activity and the mood states of expeditioners remains largely unexplored. This study aims to uncover the pattern of ANS adjustment under extreme Antarctic environments and provide new insights into the correlations between ANS activity and mood state changes, which may provide scientific data for medical interventions. METHODS Fourteen expeditioners at Zhongshan Station participated in this study. The study was conducted during four representative periods: pre-Antarctica, Antarctica-1 (pre-winter), Antarctica-2 (winter), and Antarctica-3 (summer). The heart rate variability (HRV) of the expeditioners was continuously measured for 24 hours to evaluate ANS activity. Plasma levels of catecholamines were tested by ELISA. Mood states were assessed by the Profile of Mood States (POMS) scale. RESULTS HRV analysis showed a disturbance of ANS during winter and summer periods. For frequency domain parameters, very low frequency (VLF), low frequency (LF), high frequency (HF), and total power (TP) significantly increased during the second half of the mission. Especially, LF/HF ratio decreased during summer, indicating the predominance of vagal tone. Results of the time domain analysis showed increased heart rate variability during the austral winter and summer. Plasma epinephrine (E) significantly increased during residence in Antarctica. Compared with pre-Antarctica, the vigor, depression, and anger scores of the expeditioners decreased significantly during the austral summer. Notably, the depression score showed a moderate positive correlation with LF/HF, while weak negative correlations with other HRV indicators, including TP, VLF, and LF. Anger score showed a moderate positive correlation with LF/HF and weak negative correlations with the average normal-to-normal (NN) interval, and the root mean square of differences between adjacent RR intervals (RMSSD). Plasma E level weakly correlated with the average NN interval. CONCLUSION Prolonged residence in Antarctica increased the ANS activities and shifted the cardiac autonomic modulation towards vagal predominance. The alteration of HRV correlated with mood states and plasma epinephrine levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiying Liu
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jianan Wang
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shaoling Chen
- Pingxiang Third People’s Hospital, Pingxiang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jiamin Chai
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jigang Wen
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xuan Tian
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Nan Chen
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chengli Xu
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Center of Environmental and Health Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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Nikanorova AA, Barashkov NA, Pshennikova VG, Teryutin FM, Nakhodkin SS, Solovyev AV, Romanov GP, Burtseva TE, Fedorova SA. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Free Triiodothyronine (FT3) Levels in Humans Depending on Seasonal Air Temperature Changes: Is the Variation in FT3 Levels Related to Nonshivering Thermogenesis? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14052. [PMID: 37762355 PMCID: PMC10531421 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating normal development, growth, and metabolic function. However, the controversy surrounding seasonal changes in free triiodothyronine (FT3) levels remains unresolved. Therefore, the aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of variations in FT3 levels in relation to seasonal air temperatures in the context of current knowledge about its role in nonshivering thermogenesis. Ten eligible articles with a total of 336,755 participants were included in the meta-analysis. The studies were categorized into two groups based on the air temperature: "Cold winter", where the winter temperature fell below 0 °C, and "Warm winter", where the winter temperature was above 0 °C. The analysis revealed that in cold regions, FT3 levels decreased in winter compared to summer (I2 = 57%, p < 0.001), whereas in warm regions, FT3 levels increased during winter (I2 = 28%, p < 0.001). These findings suggest that seasonal variations in FT3 levels are likely to be influenced by the winter temperature. Considering the important role of the FT3 in the nonshivering thermogenesis process, we assume that this observed pattern is probably related to the differences in use of thyroid hormones in the brown adipose tissue during adaptive thermogenesis, which may depend on intensity of cold exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alena A. Nikanorova
- Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems, Yaroslavskogo 6/3, 677000 Yakutsk, Russia; (A.A.N.); (V.G.P.); (F.M.T.); (T.E.B.); (S.A.F.)
| | - Nikolay A. Barashkov
- Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems, Yaroslavskogo 6/3, 677000 Yakutsk, Russia; (A.A.N.); (V.G.P.); (F.M.T.); (T.E.B.); (S.A.F.)
| | - Vera G. Pshennikova
- Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems, Yaroslavskogo 6/3, 677000 Yakutsk, Russia; (A.A.N.); (V.G.P.); (F.M.T.); (T.E.B.); (S.A.F.)
| | - Fedor M. Teryutin
- Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems, Yaroslavskogo 6/3, 677000 Yakutsk, Russia; (A.A.N.); (V.G.P.); (F.M.T.); (T.E.B.); (S.A.F.)
| | - Sergey S. Nakhodkin
- M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University, Kulakovskogo 46, 677013 Yakutsk, Russia; (S.S.N.); (A.V.S.); (G.P.R.)
| | - Aisen V. Solovyev
- M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University, Kulakovskogo 46, 677013 Yakutsk, Russia; (S.S.N.); (A.V.S.); (G.P.R.)
| | - Georgii P. Romanov
- M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University, Kulakovskogo 46, 677013 Yakutsk, Russia; (S.S.N.); (A.V.S.); (G.P.R.)
| | - Tatiana E. Burtseva
- Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems, Yaroslavskogo 6/3, 677000 Yakutsk, Russia; (A.A.N.); (V.G.P.); (F.M.T.); (T.E.B.); (S.A.F.)
- M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University, Kulakovskogo 46, 677013 Yakutsk, Russia; (S.S.N.); (A.V.S.); (G.P.R.)
| | - Sardana A. Fedorova
- Yakut Science Centre of Complex Medical Problems, Yaroslavskogo 6/3, 677000 Yakutsk, Russia; (A.A.N.); (V.G.P.); (F.M.T.); (T.E.B.); (S.A.F.)
- M.K. Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University, Kulakovskogo 46, 677013 Yakutsk, Russia; (S.S.N.); (A.V.S.); (G.P.R.)
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Le Roy B, Martin-Krumm C, Pinol N, Dutheil F, Trousselard M. Human challenges to adaptation to extreme professional environments: A systematic review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 146:105054. [PMID: 36682426 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
NASA is planning human exploration of the Moon, while preparations are underway for human missions to Mars, and deeper into the solar system. These missions will expose space travelers to unusual conditions, which they will have to adapt to. Similar conditions are found in several analogous environments on Earth, and studies can provide an initial understanding of the challenges for human adaptation. Such environments can be marked by an extreme climate, danger, limited facilities and supplies, isolation from loved ones, or mandatory interaction with others. They are rarely encountered by most human beings, and mainly concern certain professions in limited missions. This systematic review focuses on professional extreme environments and captures data from papers published since 2005. Our findings provide an insight into their physiological, biological, cognitive, and behavioral impacts for better understand how humans adapt or not to them. This study provides a framework for studying adaptation, which is particularly important in light of upcoming longer space expeditions to more distant destinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Le Roy
- Stress Neurophysiology Unit, French Armed Forces Biomedical Research Institute, Brétigny-sur-Orge Cedex, France; CNES, Paris, France; APEMAC/EPSAM, EA 4360 Metz Cedex, France.
| | - Charles Martin-Krumm
- Stress Neurophysiology Unit, French Armed Forces Biomedical Research Institute, Brétigny-sur-Orge Cedex, France; APEMAC/EPSAM, EA 4360 Metz Cedex, France; École de Psychologues Praticiens, Catholic Institute of Paris, EA Religion, Culture et société, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Pinol
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Health Library, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Frédéric Dutheil
- University Hospital of Clermont-Ferrand, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, WittyFit, F 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France; Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, LaPSCo, Physiological and Psychosocial Stress, 34 Avenue Carnot, 63 037 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Marion Trousselard
- Stress Neurophysiology Unit, French Armed Forces Biomedical Research Institute, Brétigny-sur-Orge Cedex, France; APEMAC/EPSAM, EA 4360 Metz Cedex, France; French Military Health Service Academy, Paris, France
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Spinelli E, Werner Junior J. Human adaptative behavior to Antarctic conditions: A review of physiological aspects. WIREs Mech Dis 2022; 14:e1556. [PMID: 35419979 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1556] [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: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The Antarctic environment induces adaptive metabolic and neuroendocrine changes associated with survival, as well as increased risks to physical and mental health. Circadian disruption has been observed in Antarctic expeditioners. The main consequences appear in quality of sleep, which can affect physical and cognitive performance. Physiological adaptation to cold is mediated by the norepinephrine and thyroid hormones (T3 and 3,5-T2 metabolite). The observed changes in the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis of expeditioners varied according to temperature, photoperiod, time spent in the cold environment and stress level. The decrease in T3 levels has frequently been associated with mood swings. Psychological and physical stressors cause disturbances in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, with consequent maintenance of high cortisol levels, leading to memory impairment, immunosuppression, and cardiometabolic and reproductive disorders. Preventive measures, such as provision of adequate food, well-established eating times, physical activity and even the use of phototherapy, can all help maintain the circadian rhythm. In addition, the use of high-tech clothing and room temperature control in research stations provide greater protection against the effects of intense cold. However, psychological stress requires a more individualized approach based on the crew's sociocultural characteristics, but it can be mitigated by mental healthcare and training in coping strategies. This article is categorized under: Cardiovascular Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology Cardiovascular Diseases > Environmental Factors Metabolic Diseases > Environmental Factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliani Spinelli
- School of Pharmacy, Fluminense Federal University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Kang JM, Cho SJ, Cho SE, Bang T, Chae BD, Yi E, Bae SM, Na KS, Jung J, Kang SG. Mood and Sleep Status and Mental Disorders During Prolonged Winter-Over Residence in Two Korean Antarctic Stations. Nat Sci Sleep 2022; 14:1387-1396. [PMID: 35982827 PMCID: PMC9379312 DOI: 10.2147/nss.s370659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Antarctica is a region with extreme climate, characterized by extreme cold and photoperiod. No research has been conducted on the mental health of Korean Antarctic dispatchers. The aim of this study was to investigate the status of mental illness and changes in mood and sleep among Korean crew members staying for a long-term period in the Antarctic station. METHODS From 2017 to 2020, crew members who were dispatched from South Korea to two Antarctic stations for a one-year period participated in this study. The crew were evaluated for mood and sleep status and mental illness through psychological tests and interviews by board-certified psychiatrists once before departure and twice during their stay in Antarctica. The incidence of mental illness was confirmed and changes in sleep and depression were analyzed. RESULTS A total of 88 participants were included in the final analysis, and 7 of them (8.0%) were diagnosed with mental disorders such as insomnia in early winter. The total Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) score increased significantly in the early winter period, and the total Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Inventory (PSQI) scores increased in both early and late winter. The difference in changes in mood and sleep symptoms before, during, and after dispatch between the two stations was not significant. CONCLUSION This is the first study to investigate the mental illness and mood and sleep status of Korean crews dispatched to Antarctica. In early winter, there were significant increases in mental illness and depressive symptoms, and a worsening of sleep status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Myeong Kang
- Department of Psychiatry, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Jin Cho
- Department of Psychiatry, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seo-Eun Cho
- Department of Psychiatry, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Taemo Bang
- Artificial Intelligence and Big-Data Convergence Center, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung Do Chae
- Unit of Frontier Exploration, Korea Polar Research Institute, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Eojin Yi
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Min Bae
- Department of Psychiatry, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung-Sae Na
- Department of Psychiatry, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaehun Jung
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Gul Kang
- Department of Psychiatry, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
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Goncharova N, Chigarova O, Oganyan T. Age-related and individual features of the HPA axis stress responsiveness under constant light in nonhuman primates. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1051882. [PMID: 36699023 PMCID: PMC9870316 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1051882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is a key adaptive neuroendocrine system, dysfunction of which plays an important role in the increasing incidence of stress-dependent age-related pathology. Among the environmental factors effecting increase age-related diseases, great importance is given to disturbances of the light-dark schedule, particularly with increased illumination at night. While disruption of the light-dark schedule has long been recognized as a powerful behavioral stressor, little is known regarding stress reactivity of the HPA under constant light (CL) conditions, especially with aging and depending on the features of stress behavior. The purpose of this investigation was to study the age-related and individual features of the HPA axis response to acute stress exposure (ASE) under chronic CL in nonhuman primates that are known to differ in behavioral responsiveness to stress. Young and old female rhesus monkeys (with control standard behavior or anxiety and depression-like behavior) were exposed to CL (24 h light/day, 330-400 lux for 4 to 8 weeks). Control young and old monkeys were exposed to standard lighting (SL) with natural light during the day and darkness at night. All animals were subjected to ASE (restriction of mobility for 2 hours), functional tests with corticotrophin-releasing hormone and arginine-vasopressin, and study of circadian rhythms of cortisol and pineal melatonin secretion. For the first time an inhibitory effect of CL on the reaction of the adrenal cortex to ASE was revealed in all individuals, regardless of age and preexisting behavior stress reactivity, the mechanisms of which were age-dependent: due to inhibition of the pituitary ACTH secretion in young animals and mainly not affecting the ACTH secretion in old individuals. There were no significant changes in melatonin secretion both in young and old animals. The observed CL inhibition of adrenal cortical reactivity to ASE may be useful to correct increased vulnerability to ASE observed in individuals with preexisting anxiety and depression-like stress behaviors. On the other hand, the CL induced decrease in adrenal stress reactivity of behaviorally normal animals suggests a potential risk of reducing the adaptive capacity of the organism under conditions of continuous light exposure.
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Bakhmutova L. Main features of expeditioners’personality traits in Antarctic conditions. Ment Health (Lond) 2021. [DOI: 10.32437/mhgcj.v4i1.130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction. Determining the benefits of basic human personality traits is one of the main components of the selection and staffing of small groups of peoples that are working in extreme environmental conditions and socio-spatial isolation. These groups include teams of polar explorers, scientists from outlying research bases, ship and submarine crews, and aircraft and space shuttles teams.
Purpose. To identify the prevailing type of temperament of and personal changes in people working on the Antarctic station during a one-year period of isolation to develop measures to maintain their mental and physical health.
Methodology. A total of 48 people (46 men and 2 women aged from 23 to 63 years) from four wintering teams of the Ukrainian Antarctic station (UAS) “Akademik Vernadsky” were voluntarily interviewed according to the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ). The poll was conducted twice – before the departure to the Antarctic station and after their return after a year. Participants were studied in two groups (24 peoples) once again after a 6-month stay on the Antarctic station, to determine the level of psychoticism. The research was based on the analysis of preferences and changes in personality traits: Extraversion/Introversion, Neuroticism/Stability, and Psychoticism/Socialization.
Results. Based on the analysis of indicators such as Extraversion/Introversion, Neuroticism/Stability, and Psychoticism/Socialization, we determined the general structure of the personal characteristics of the expeditioners. Indicators of these characteristics showed that more than a third of the expeditioners (36.1%) were pronounced extroverts. A majority (61.1%) of the respondents were characterized by an intermediate between extraversion and introversion, and only 2.8% were pronounced introverts. 58.4% of the respondents were characterized by a low level of neuroticism, while 33.3% were characterized by medium level of neuroticism. Only 8.3% were found to have a high level of neuroticism. Low levels of psychoticism were predominant in 56.3% of the respondents while the remaining 43.7% had medium levels of psychoticism. A high level of psychoticism was absent in the respondents which indicates a psychologically correct selection of the team. Analysis of the dynamics of psychoticism revealed that there were higher growth rates (+0.97) of average indexes of psychoticism during the first 6 months of the expeditioners’ stay at the Antarctic station than at the end of the activity. This was due to the “acute adaptation” period when the respondent fit in the natural conditions of Antarctica. Furthermore, there was a development of psychoticism in the expeditioners during the “polar night”; the growth rates of psychoticism decreased after adaptation.
Conclusions. To maintain people’s mental health at the Antarctic station, it is optimal to select candidates for a one-year expedition with average rates of extraversion-introversion, and mostly low rates of neuroticism and psychoticism. These personal characteristics must be taken into account when forming an expedition team. The level of psychoticism during the expedition increases under the influence of the adverse environmental conditions of Antarctica and the socio-spatial isolation
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Tortello C, Folgueira A, Nicolas M, Cuiuli JM, Cairoli G, Crippa V, Barbarito M, Abulafia C, Golombek DA, Vigo DE, Plano SA. Coping with Antarctic demands: Psychological implications of isolation and confinement. Stress Health 2021; 37:431-441. [PMID: 33166090 DOI: 10.1002/smi.3006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Working in extreme environments requires a wide range of cognitive, psychological and social competences. Antarctica represents one of the most challenging habitats to work in due to its aridity, extremely cold weather, and isolated conditions. This study aimed to assess mood variations and coping strategies, as well as their possible modulation by group dynamics in a crew at the Belgrano II Argentine Antarctic Station throughout 1 year of confinement. Thirteen members of the Argentine Army completed emotional, coping and social dynamics questionnaires bimonthly in March, May, July, September and November. Results showed a significant decline in social dynamics scales, evidenced by decreases in perceived peer and hierarchical support. Additionally, coping strategies displayed a drop in mature defence throughout the expedition. A positive correlation was found between social support and recovery from stress. Our results highlight the importance of interpersonal relationships in psychological adjustment to isolation and extreme environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Tortello
- Chronobiology Lab, National University of Quilmes (UNQ), Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Institute for Biomedical Research (BIOMED), Catholic University of Argentina (UCA) and National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Agustín Folgueira
- Neurology Department, Central Military Hospital, Argentine Army, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Michel Nicolas
- Laboratory Psy-DREPI (EA 7458), University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Dijon, France
| | - Juan Manuel Cuiuli
- Argentine Joint Antarctic Command, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Germán Cairoli
- Argentine Joint Antarctic Command, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Valeria Crippa
- Argentine Joint Antarctic Command, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Carolina Abulafia
- Institute for Biomedical Research (BIOMED), Catholic University of Argentina (UCA) and National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Movement Disorders Unit, Raul Carrea Institute of Neurological Research, Institute for Neurological Research (FLENI), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Diego Andrés Golombek
- Chronobiology Lab, National University of Quilmes (UNQ), Buenos Aires, Argentina.,National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daniel Eduardo Vigo
- Institute for Biomedical Research (BIOMED), Catholic University of Argentina (UCA) and National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Santiago Andrés Plano
- Chronobiology Lab, National University of Quilmes (UNQ), Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Institute for Biomedical Research (BIOMED), Catholic University of Argentina (UCA) and National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Palinkas LA, Suedfeld P. Psychosocial issues in isolated and confined extreme environments. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 126:413-429. [PMID: 33836214 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.03.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
PALINKAS, L.A., and P. SUEDFELD. Psychosocial Issues in Isolated and Confined Extreme Environments. NEUROSCI BIOBEHAV REV (1) XXX-XXX, 2020. Psychosocial elements of behavior and performance will significantly impact the outcomes of long duration missions in space, ranging from individual and team decrements to positive benefits associated with successful adaptation. This paper reviews our current understanding of the individual, interpersonal and organizational issues related to living and working in isolated and confined extreme (ICE) environments. Individual issues include changes in emotions and cognitive performance; seasonal syndromes linked to changes in the physical environment; and positive effects of adapting to ICE environments. Interpersonal issues include processes of crew cohesion, tension and conflict; interpersonal relations and social support; the impact of group diversity and leadership styles on small group dynamics; and crew-mission control interactions. Organizational issues include the influence of organizational culture and mission duration on individual and group performance, crew autonomy, and managerial requirements for long duration missions. Improved screening and selection, leadership, coping and interpersonal skills training, and organizational change are key elements to optimizing adjustment to the environment and preventing decrements during and after long duration missions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence A Palinkas
- Suzanne Dworak Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, 669 W. 34(th) Street, Los Angeles, CA, 90089-0411, USA.
| | - Peter Suedfeld
- Department of Psychology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Tsibulnikov S, Maslov L, Voronkov N, Oeltgen P. Thyroid hormones and the mechanisms of adaptation to cold. Hormones (Athens) 2020; 19:329-339. [PMID: 32399937 DOI: 10.1007/s42000-020-00200-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in the regulation of metabolism, oxygen consumption, and the release of energy in the form of heat to maintain the body. Even at rest, these processes are sensitive to changes in thyroid function. This means that along with the adrenergic system, thyroid function determines the organism's ability to adapt to cold. Cold adaptation causes deiodination of thyroxine (T4) and thus promotes an increase in blood triiodothyronine (T3) levels in humans and animals. Triiodothyronine is an inductor of iodothyronine deiodinase expression in brown fat, liver, and kidney. Iodothyronine deiodinase plays an important role in adaptation of the organism to cold by contributing to high adrenergic reactivity of brown fat. T3 also leads to an increase in expression of uncoupling proteins and uncoupling oxidative phosphorylation and an increase in heat production. The aim of this article is to review the available literature regarding the role of thyroid hormones in adaptation to cold and to present the current knowledge of the understanding of the molecular mechanism underlying their action during cold adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergey Tsibulnikov
- Cardiology Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center of the RAS, Kyevskaya St.111A, Tomsk, 634012, Russia
| | - Leonid Maslov
- Cardiology Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center of the RAS, Kyevskaya St.111A, Tomsk, 634012, Russia.
| | - Nikita Voronkov
- Cardiology Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center of the RAS, Kyevskaya St.111A, Tomsk, 634012, Russia
- Tomsk State University, Lenina Ave. 36, Tomsk, Russia
| | - Peter Oeltgen
- Department of Pathology, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
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Strewe C, Moser D, Buchheim JI, Gunga HC, Stahn A, Crucian BE, Fiedel B, Bauer H, Gössmann-Lang P, Thieme D, Kohlberg E, Choukèr A, Feuerecker M. Sex differences in stress and immune responses during confinement in Antarctica. Biol Sex Differ 2019; 10:20. [PMID: 30992051 PMCID: PMC6469129 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-019-0231-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Antarctica challenges human explorers by its extreme environment. The effects of these unique conditions on the human physiology need to be understood to best mitigate health problems in Antarctic expedition crews. Moreover, Antarctica is an adequate Earth-bound analogue for long-term space missions. To date, its effects on human physiology have been studied mainly in male cohorts though more female expeditioners and applicants in astronaut training programs are selected. Therefore, the identification of sex differences in stress and immune reactions are becoming an even more essential aim to provide a more individualized risk management. Methods Ten female and 16 male subjects participated in three 1-year expeditions to the German Antarctic Research Station Neumayer III. Blood, saliva, and urine samples were taken 1–2 months prior to departure, subsequently every month during their expedition, and 3–4 months after return from Antarctica. Analyses included cortisol, catecholamine and endocannabinoid measurements; psychological evaluation; differential blood count; and recall antigen- and mitogen-stimulated cytokine profiles. Results Cortisol showed significantly higher concentrations in females than males during winter whereas no enhanced psychological stress was detected in both sexes. Catecholamine excretion was higher in males than females but never showed significant increases compared to baseline. Endocannabinoids and N-acylethanolamides increased significantly in both sexes and stayed consistently elevated during the confinement. Cytokine profiles after in vitro stimulation revealed no sex differences but resulted in significant time-dependent changes. Hemoglobin and hematocrit were significantly higher in males than females, and hemoglobin increased significantly in both sexes compared to baseline. Platelet counts were significantly higher in females than males. Leukocytes and granulocyte concentrations increased during confinement with a dip for both sexes in winter whereas lymphocytes were significantly elevated in both sexes during the confinement. Conclusions The extreme environment of Antarctica seems to trigger some distinct stress and immune responses but—with the exception of cortisol and blood cell counts—without any major relevant sex-specific differences. Stated sex differences were shown to be independent of enhanced psychological stress and seem to be related to the environmental conditions. However, sources and consequences of these sex differences have to be further elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Strewe
- Department of Anaesthesiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Laboratory of Translational Research "Stress and Immunity", Marchioninistraße 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - D Moser
- Department of Anaesthesiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Laboratory of Translational Research "Stress and Immunity", Marchioninistraße 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - J-I Buchheim
- Department of Anaesthesiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Laboratory of Translational Research "Stress and Immunity", Marchioninistraße 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - H-C Gunga
- Institut für Physiologie, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - A Stahn
- Institut für Physiologie, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - B E Crucian
- NASA - Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - B Fiedel
- Alfred-Wegener-Institut, Helmholtz-Zentrum für Polar- und Meeresforschung, Bremerhaven, Germany
| | - H Bauer
- Alfred-Wegener-Institut, Helmholtz-Zentrum für Polar- und Meeresforschung, Bremerhaven, Germany
| | - P Gössmann-Lang
- Alfred-Wegener-Institut, Helmholtz-Zentrum für Polar- und Meeresforschung, Bremerhaven, Germany
| | - D Thieme
- Institute of Doping Analysis und Sports Biochemistry, Kreischa, Germany
| | - E Kohlberg
- Alfred-Wegener-Institut, Helmholtz-Zentrum für Polar- und Meeresforschung, Bremerhaven, Germany
| | - A Choukèr
- Department of Anaesthesiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Laboratory of Translational Research "Stress and Immunity", Marchioninistraße 15, 81377, Munich, Germany.
| | - M Feuerecker
- Department of Anaesthesiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Laboratory of Translational Research "Stress and Immunity", Marchioninistraße 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
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12
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Mahwi TO, Abdulateef DS. Relation of Different Components of Climate with Human Pituitary-Thyroid Axis and FT3/FT4 Ratio: A Study on Euthyroid and SCH Subjects in Two Different Seasons. Int J Endocrinol 2019; 2019:2762978. [PMID: 30800161 PMCID: PMC6360063 DOI: 10.1155/2019/2762978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Various changes in thyroid hormones (TH) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level were observed in different seasons among euthyroid and hypothyroid subjects living in areas with an extreme temperature difference between summer and winter. OBJECTIVES This study aims at finding the effect of temperate climate on the seasonal variations of TSH and TH in euthyroid and subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) subjects and at evaluating if the test season has an effect on the number of subjects diagnosed as SCH. It basically focuses on the relation of different components of climate with TH and TSH. METHOD In a prospective study on 152 healthy (euthyroid) volunteers and 25 SCH subjects, the serum hormone levels (TSH, FT4, and FT3) were measured in both the summer and winter seasons and correlated with all the climate components using Pearson's correlation coefficient. The effect of duration of outdoor exposure on hormone levels was compared using a paired sample t-test (P < 0.05). RESULTS Small but statistically significant increased FT3 level and decreased FT4 level were observed during the winter season in euthyroid and SCH subjects, respectively. There was a significant negative correlation between FT3 and FT3/FT4 ratio with temperature and sunshine duration and a positive correlation with humidity and atmospheric pressure. A positive correlation was found between FT4 and sunshine duration. CONCLUSION The climate components contributed to the slight variance in hormone levels in different seasons, and the effect was mostly on peripheral conversion of FT4 to FT3 rather than the pituitary-thyroid axis leading to slightly higher FT3 in winter. Seasonal variation does not affect the diagnosis of SCH cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taha O. Mahwi
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Sulaimani, Sulaymaniyah 46001, Iraq
| | - Darya S. Abdulateef
- Physiology Department, College of Medicine, University of Sulaimani, Sulaymaniyah 46001, Iraq
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13
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Sandal GM, van deVijver FJR, Smith N. Psychological Hibernation in Antarctica. Front Psychol 2018; 9:2235. [PMID: 30524340 PMCID: PMC6256132 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.02235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Human activity in Antarctica has increased sharply in recent years. In particular during the winter months, people are exposed to long periods of isolation and confinement and an extreme physical environment that poses risks to health, well-being and performance. The present study aimed to gain a better understanding of processes contributing to psychological resilience in this context. Specifically, the study examined how the use of coping strategies changed over time, and the extent to which changes coincided with alterations in mood and sleep. Two crews (N = 27) spending approximately 10 months at the Concordia station completed the Utrecht Coping List, the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS), and a structured sleep diary at regular intervals (x 9). The results showed that several variables reached a minimum value during the midwinter period, which corresponded to the third quarter of the expedition. The effect was particularly noticeable for coping strategies (i.e., active problem solving, palliative reactions, avoidance, and comforting cognitions). The pattern of results could indicate that participants during Antarctic over-wintering enter a state of psychological hibernation as a stress coping mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fons J R van deVijver
- Department of Culture Studies, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands.,Department of Psychology, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Nathan Smith
- Department of Politics, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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14
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Maciejczyk M, Araźny A, Opyrchał M. Changes in aerobic performance, body composition, and physical activity in polar explorers during a year-long stay at the polar station in the Arctic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2017; 61:669-675. [PMID: 27624162 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-016-1244-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2016] [Revised: 07/11/2016] [Accepted: 09/06/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in physical activity, aerobic performance, and body composition in polar explorers during a 1-year stay at the polar station. The study group consisted of 10 people, including 8 men and 2 women. Aerobic performance (maximal oxygen uptake), physical activity, body mass, and composition were evaluated for the polar explores of the Polish Polar Station prior to departure, and then during their stay at the station for a period of 1 year. The measurements were performed every 3 months. Compared to the measurements taken before going to the polar station, aerobic performance significantly (p = 0.02) increased in the first 3 months of residing at the polar station and then remained relatively stable for the following duration of the stay. In the first 3 months of the stay, we also observed the highest level of physical activity in participants. In the polar explorers, no significant (p > 0.05) body fatness changes were noted. Nonetheless, lean body mass, body mass, and BMI significantly increased compared to the measurements taken before departure to the polar station. The greatest changes in aerobic performance, physical activity, and body composition were observed during the first 3 months after arrival to the Arctic and then, despite changing biometeorological conditions, they remained stable for the next months of the stay. We recommend the introduction of a physical preparation program before departing to the polar station to improve explorers' physical fitness, so that they can meet the physical challenges they are faced with immediately after arrival to the polar station.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Maciejczyk
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, University of Physical Education, Al. Jana Pawła II 78, 31-571, Kraków, Poland.
| | - Andrzej Araźny
- Department of Meteorology and Climatology, Faculty of Earth Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Toruń, Poland
- Institute of Geophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marta Opyrchał
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, University of Physical Education, Kraków, Poland
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15
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Circadian Rhythm and Sleep During Prolonged Antarctic Residence at Chinese Zhongshan Station. Wilderness Environ Med 2016; 27:458-467. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2016.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2016] [Revised: 07/06/2016] [Accepted: 07/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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