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Tramel W, Schram B, Canetti E, Orr R. An Examination of Subjective and Objective Measures of Stress in Tactical Populations: A Scoping Review. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2515. [PMID: 37761712 PMCID: PMC10530665 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11182515] [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: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Persons working in tactical occupations are often exposed to high-stress situations. If this stress is to be measured, an understanding of the stress outcomes used in these occupations is needed. The aim of this review was to capture and critically appraise research investigating subjective and objective outcome measures of physiological stress in tactical occupations. Several literature databases (PubMed, EMBASE, EBsco) were searched using key search words and terms. Studies meeting inclusion criteria were critically evaluated and scored by two authors using the Joanne Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tool. Of 17,171 articles, 42 studies were retained. The Cohen's Kappa agreement between authors was 0.829 with a mean JBI Score of included studies of 8.1/9 ± 0.37 points. Multiple subjective and objective measures were assessed during a variety of high-stress tasks and environments across different occupations, including police officers, emergency service personnel, firefighters, and soldiers in the military. Common objective outcomes measures were heart rate, cortisol, and body temperature, and subjective measures were ratings of perceived exertion, and the Self Trait Anxiety Inventory. Often used in combination (i.e., subjective and objective), these outcome measures can be used to monitor stressors faced by tactical personnel undergoing on-the-job training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Whitney Tramel
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Robina, QLD 4226, Australia; (B.S.); (E.C.); (R.O.)
| | - Ben Schram
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Robina, QLD 4226, Australia; (B.S.); (E.C.); (R.O.)
- Tactical Research Unit, Bond University, Robina, QLD 4226, Australia
| | - Elisa Canetti
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Robina, QLD 4226, Australia; (B.S.); (E.C.); (R.O.)
- Tactical Research Unit, Bond University, Robina, QLD 4226, Australia
| | - Robin Orr
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Robina, QLD 4226, Australia; (B.S.); (E.C.); (R.O.)
- Tactical Research Unit, Bond University, Robina, QLD 4226, Australia
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Fernández-Elías VE, Tornero-Aguilera JF, Parraca JA, Clemente-Suárez VJ. Psychological Stress Triggers a Hyperammonemia Episode in Patient with Ornithine Transcarbamylase Deficiency. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11516. [PMID: 36141788 PMCID: PMC9517620 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811516] [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: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
An 18-year-old male motorcycle racer, who was a participant in the FIM Road Racing World Championship and had a history of Ornithine Transcarbamylase deficiency, developed nausea and dizziness while driving his motorcycle and became unconscious right after he stopped at the box. He was rapidly attended to by the medical personnel of the circuit, and once he recovered consciousness, he was taken to the local hospital where the blood analysis showed hyperammonemia (307 μg/dL) and excess alkalosis. The patient was properly following the prescribed treatment, and there were no environmental stressors. Hence, psychological stress and its somatization due to the risky task that the patient was performing could have triggered the episode. Stress must be considered as a potential cause, triggering strenuous metabolic stress that leads to hyperammonemia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jose Alberto Parraca
- Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Escola de Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade de Évora, Largo dos Colegiais, 7000 Évora, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), Universidade de Évora, 7000 Évora, Portugal
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3
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Tornero-Aguilera JF, Sánchez-Molina J, Parraca JA, Morais A, Clemente-Suárez VJ. Are Crohn's Disease Patients Limited in Sport Practise? An UltraEndurance Case-Control Study Response. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:10007. [PMID: 36011641 PMCID: PMC9407764 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191610007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to analyze the psychophysiological response of a Crohn's Disease patient in an ultra-endurance event. The psychophysiological responses of a Crohn's Disease and non-Crohn's Disease participant were analysed before during and after an 8 h ultra-endurance running event. Results showed how Crohn's patient presented a similar psychophysiological response than non-Crohn's participant in the ultra-endurance event, except for a higher pre- and post-event sympathetic modulation, lower event sympathetic tone, and lower event body temperature. This study could contribute to improving physical activity recommendations for persons with Crohn's Disease and open a new research line for an improved understanding of psychophysiological modifications of Crohn's Disease patients during exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Francisco Tornero-Aguilera
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Madrid, Spain
- Research Center in Applied Combat (CESCA), 45007 Toledo, Spain
| | | | - Jose A. Parraca
- Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Escola de Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade de Évora, 7004-516 Évora, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), University of Évora, 7004-516 Évora, Portugal
| | - Ana Morais
- Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Escola de Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano, Universidade de Évora, 7004-516 Évora, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), University of Évora, 7004-516 Évora, Portugal
| | - Vicente Javier Clemente-Suárez
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Madrid, Spain
- Research Center in Applied Combat (CESCA), 45007 Toledo, Spain
- Grupo de Investigación en Cultura, Educación y Sociedad, Universidad de la Costa, Barranquilla 080002, Colombia
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Mourtakos S, Vassiliou G, Kontoangelos K, Philippou A, Tzavellas E, Tornero-Aguilera JF, Clemente-Suárez VJ, Papageorgiou C, Sidossis LS, Papageorgiou C. Endocannabinoids and Heart Rate Variability Alterations after Exposure to Prolonged Intensive Physical Exercise of the Hellenic Navy SEALs. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 19:ijerph19010028. [PMID: 35010291 PMCID: PMC8750887 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Background: Recent research indicates that both endocannabinoids (eCB) and heart rate variability (HRV) are associated with stress-induced experiences. However, these underlying mechanisms are not elucidated. The present study aims to investigate whether exposure to acute and chronic stress conditions can give rise to measurable changes, both to the peripheral eCB ligands and HRV. Methods: Thirteen candidates under intense preparation for their enlistment in the Hellenic Navy SEALs (HNS) participated in the study. All subjects underwent mental state examination, while HRV variables in time and frequency domain recordings were acquired. Furthermore, at baseline and 30 days after prolonged and intensive physical exercise, hair was collected to measure eCB ligands, such as anandamide (AEA), 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), and the N-acyl ethanolamine (NAE) molecules: palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) and oleoylethanolamide (OEA). Results: Comparing basal hair concentrations of eCB ligands before and after intense physical exercise, we found that AEA, PEA, and OEA were notably increased, whereas no differences were observed regarding the ligand 2-AG. Furthermore, there were observed associations between the concentrations of peripheral eCB ligands, both at baseline and after the prolonged physical exercise and the time and frequency domains of HRV. Conclusions: These findings suggest that endocannabinoid–HRV interrelations might share a short-term, and long-term adaptability of the changes in self-regulation associated with stress. Further studies will be required to determine the validity of peripheral eCB signaling and HRV as a biomarker for different aspects of the stress response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stamatis Mourtakos
- Department of Psychiatry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (G.V.); (K.K.); (E.T.); (C.P.)
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-6937065522
| | - Georgia Vassiliou
- Department of Psychiatry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (G.V.); (K.K.); (E.T.); (C.P.)
- Neurosciences and Precision Medicine Research Institute “Costas Stefanis”, University Mental Health, 115 27 Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Kontoangelos
- Department of Psychiatry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (G.V.); (K.K.); (E.T.); (C.P.)
- Neurosciences and Precision Medicine Research Institute “Costas Stefanis”, University Mental Health, 115 27 Athens, Greece
| | - Anastassios Philippou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece;
| | - Elias Tzavellas
- Department of Psychiatry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (G.V.); (K.K.); (E.T.); (C.P.)
| | | | - Vicente Javier Clemente-Suárez
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Villaviciosa de Odón, Spain; (J.F.T.-A.); (V.J.C.-S.)
- Grupo de Investigación en Cultura, Educación y Sociedad, Universidad de la Costa, Barranquilla 080002, Colombia
| | - Charalabos Papageorgiou
- Department of Psychiatry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece; (G.V.); (K.K.); (E.T.); (C.P.)
- Neurosciences and Precision Medicine Research Institute “Costas Stefanis”, University Mental Health, 115 27 Athens, Greece
| | - Labros S. Sidossis
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Harokopio University of Athens, 115 27 Athens, Greece;
- Department of Kinesiology and Health, Division of Life Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
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Effects of Hypoxia on Selected Psychophysiological Stress Responses of Military Aircrew. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:6633851. [PMID: 34853792 PMCID: PMC8629630 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6633851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
There is a lack of information on the psychophysiological response of pilots under hypoxic conditions. The study of the physiological, psychological, cardiorespiratory, neurological, behavioural, sensory, and cognitive symptoms that may appear during training in hypobaric chambers is essential to optimize the training processes of aircrew members. Thus, the present study is aimed at analyzing the psychophysiological responses of aircrew members in an incremental hypoxia training protocol. Psychophysiological responses of 44 aircrew members (34 males and 10 females) in an incremental hypoxia training protocol (3 minutes at 0 meters, 8 minutes at 5,000 meters, and maximum time at 7500 meters) were measured. Results suggested that the incremental hypoxia training protocol did not affect cortical arousal and handgrip strength; however, it increased the sympathetic tone, perceived stress, perceived effort, and heart rate and decreased forced expiratory volume and blood oxygen saturation. Thus, we concluded that acute hypoxic hypobaric exposure leads to decreased parasympathetic tone, blood oxygen saturation, and maximal spirometry values, without negatively affecting handgrip strength and cortical arousal. This information will lead to find specific training systems that meet the real needs of aircrew.
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Bellido-Esteban A, Beltrán-Velasco AI, Ruisoto-Palomera P, Nikolaidis PT, Knechtle B, Clemente-Suárez VJ. The Effect of Psychology Objective Structured Clinical Examination Scenarios Presentation Order on Students Autonomic Stress Response. Front Psychol 2021; 12:622102. [PMID: 33841253 PMCID: PMC8024632 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.622102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) is a method for assessment clinical competencies and skills. However, there is a need to improve its design in psychology programs. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of the different scenario's presentation order with different complexity/difficulty on the autonomic stress response of undergraduate students undergoing a Psychology OSCE. A total of 32 students of Psychology Bachelor's Degree (23.4 ± 2.5 years) were randomly selected and assigned to two OSCE scenarios of different complexity. While undergoing the scenarios, participants heart rate variability was analyzed as an indicator of participant's stress autonomic response. Results indicate that the order of presentation of different complexity/difficulty scenarios affects the autonomic stress response of undergraduate Psychology students undergoing an OSCE. Students who underwent the high-complexity scenario (difficult) first, reported significantly higher autonomic stress response than students who began the OSCE with the low-complexity scenario (easy). Highly complex or difficult scenarios require good executive functions or cognitive control, very sensitive to autonomic stress responses. Therefore, OSCE design will benefit from placing easy scenarios first.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Pantelis T Nikolaidis
- Department of Physical and Cultural Education, Hellenic Army Academy, Athens, Greece.,Exercise Physiology Laboratory, Nikaia, Greece
| | - Beat Knechtle
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Vicente Javier Clemente-Suárez
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Grupo de Investigación en Cultura, Educación y Sociedad, Universidad de la Costa, Barranquilla, Colombia
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Portable Biosensors for Psychophysiological Stress Monitoring of a Helicopter Crew. SENSORS 2020; 20:s20236849. [PMID: 33266069 PMCID: PMC7730801 DOI: 10.3390/s20236849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
This study aims to analyze the psychophysiological stress response of a helicopter crew using portable biosensors, and to analyze the psychophysiological stress response differences of experienced and non-experienced crew members. We analyzed 27 participants (33.89 ± 5.93 years) divided into two different flight maneuvers: a crane rescue maneuver: 15 participants (three control and 12 military) and a low-altitude maneuver: 12 participants (five control and seven military). Anxiety, rating of perceived exertion, subjective perception of stress, heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, skin temperature, blood lactate, cortical arousal, autonomic modulation, leg and hand strength, leg flexibility, spirometry, urine, and short-term memory were analyzed before and after both helicopter flight maneuvers. The maneuvers produced a significant increase in stress and effort perception, state of anxiety, and sympathetic modulation, as well as a significant decrease in heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, leg and inspiratory muscle strength, and urine proteins. The use of biosensors showed how a crane rescue and low-altitude helicopter maneuvers produced an anticipatory anxiety response, showing an increased sympathetic autonomic modulation prior to the maneuvers, which was maintained during the maneuvers in both experienced and non-experienced participants. The crane rescue maneuver produced a higher maximal heart rate and decreased pulmonary capacity and strength than the low-altitude maneuver. The psychophysiological stress response was higher in the experienced than in non-experienced participants, but both presented an anticipatory stress response before the maneuver.
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8
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Gil-Cabrera J, Tornero Aguilera JF, Sanchez-Tena MA, Alvarez-Peregrina C, Valbuena-Iglesias C, Clemente-Suárez VJ. Aviation-Associated Spatial Disorientation and Incidence of Visual Illusions Survey in Military Pilots. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/24721840.2020.1841562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Gil-Cabrera
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | - Vicente Javier Clemente-Suárez
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Research Centre in Applied Combat (CESCA), Toledo, Spain
- Grupo de Investigación en Cultura, Educación y Sociedad, Universidad de la Costa, Barranquilla, Colombia
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9
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The Physical Fitness Effects of a Week-Long Specialist Tactical Police Selection Course. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17186782. [PMID: 32957661 PMCID: PMC7559033 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17186782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Specialist police tactical teams, like special operations military personnel, are tasked with dangerous, high risk missions which are beyond the scope of general police. Consequently, the selection courses for entry into these teams are physiologically and psychologically demanding. The purpose of this study was to examine the physiological effects of a five-day selection course to aid in candidate preparation and course planning. Measures included body mass, grip strength, sit-and-reach flexibility, and a vertical jump assessment. Eleven candidates finished the selection course with significant decreases in body mass (-2.05 kg, p = 0.006 (95% CI = 3.65-0.45)), grip strength in the right (-14.48 kg, p < 0.001 (95% CI = 21.32-7.64)) and left (-14.27 kg, p < 0.001 (95% CI = 21.89-6.66)) hands and in sit-and-reach flexibility (-6.64 cm, p < 0.001 (95% CI = 9.94-3.33)). No significant decreases in power output or peak jump velocity of 669.77 W (95% CI = 1942.92-603.39) and 0.28 m/s (95% CI = 0.69-0.14) were found and a non-significant, overall increase in vertical jump height of 6.09 cm (95% CI = -6.08 to 18.79) was seen. Decreases in body mass, grip strength and lower limb flexibility are evident in a grueling five-day selection course. Individuals planning on attending these courses should plan for these negative effects and build redundancy into their performance to minimize the effects of fatigue, decrease injury risk and maximize chances of completion.
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10
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L RF, Tornero-Aguilera JF, Clemente-Suárez VJ. Could academic experience modulate psychophysiological stress response of biomedical sciences students in laboratory? Physiol Behav 2020; 223:113017. [PMID: 32565404 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2020.113017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present research was to analyse the subjective and objective psychophysiological stress response of experienced and non-experienced Pharmacy and Biotechnology students in laboratory practices. We analysed in 82 Pharmacy and Biotechnology degree students divided into two groups (non-experienced: n: 53; experienced: n: 29) the autonomic stress response by the analysis of heart rate variability (HRV) before, during and after and distress perception before and after a laboratory practice. Results showed how students in both groups presented a large anticipatory anxiety response at the beginning of the practise (low HRV values). During the entire laboratory practice, non-experienced students showed a maintained sympathetic modulation while experienced students presented a higher parasympathetic modulation (high HRV values) consistent with a habituation process. Laboratory practise performed by Pharmacy and Biotechnology students produced an anticipatory anxiety response independently of their experience, but, non-experienced students showed a lower habituation response in both subjective and objective stress records than experienced students at the end of the laboratory practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Redondo-Flórez L
- Universidad Europea de Madrid. Faculty of Sports Sciences. Tajo Street, s/n, 28670 Madrid, Spain
| | - J F Tornero-Aguilera
- Universidad Europea de Madrid. Faculty of Sports Sciences. Tajo Street, s/n, 28670 Madrid, Spain
| | - V J Clemente-Suárez
- Universidad Europea de Madrid. Faculty of Sports Sciences. Tajo Street, s/n, 28670 Madrid, Spain; Grupo de Investigación en Cultura, Educación y Sociedad, Universidad de la Costa, 080002 Barranquilla, Colombia.
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11
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Bustamante-Sánchez Á, Clemente-Suárez VJ. Psychophysiological response in night and instrument helicopter flights. ERGONOMICS 2020; 63:399-406. [PMID: 31957600 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2020.1718772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Instrument and night flights are sources of mishaps: they produce stressful contexts to aircrews in which operability can be affected. This study aimed to analyse the effect of night and instrument flights in cortical arousal, autonomic modulation, muscle strength, and stress perception. 23 people were analysed (8 helicopter pilots, 4 helicopter mechanics - Spanish Air Forces - and 11 controls) before and after instrument and night flight exposition. Lactate and perceived exertion rose after flights. Anxiety was higher in instrument than in night flights. Pilots had a higher sense of anxiety before a flight compared to mechanics, although mechanics experienced a higher raise of heart rate during flight, with lower heart rate variability. Breath capacity was affected in pilots. Cortical arousal was more affected in unexperienced than in experienced aircrew during flights. These data suggest differences in their previous training. Practitioner summary: Night and instrument helicopter flights produced a different psychophysiological response of aircrew. These results could help to design specific training for aircrew that usually face instrument and night manoeuvres. Specific training based on high-intensity interval training integrated with reverse periodisation could improve their preparation. Abbreviations: BMI: body mass index; BOS: blood oxygen saturation; BT: body temperature; CA: cognitive anxiety; CFFT: critical flicker fusion threshold; ES: effect size; FEV1: forced expiratory volume in 1 second; FVC: forced vital capacity; HF: high frequency; HR: heart rate; HRV: heart rate variability; HIS: isometric handgrip strength; LF: low frequency; NVG: night vision googles; PEF: peak expiratory flow; pNN50: proportion of differences between R-R intervals higher than 50 ms; RMSSD: square root of the mean of the sum of the squared differences between adjacent normal R-R intervals; RPE: rated of perceived exertion; SA: somatic anxiety; SC: self confidence; STAI: state trait anxiety inventory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro Bustamante-Sánchez
- Department of Sport Science, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Madrid, Spain
| | - Vicente Javier Clemente-Suárez
- Department of Sport Science, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Madrid, Spain
- Grupo de Investigación en Cultura, Educación y Sociedad, Universidad de la Costa, Barranquilla, Colombia
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Vicente-Rodríguez M, Fuentes-Garcia JP, Clemente-Suárez VJ. Psychophysiological Stress Response in an Underwater Evacuation Training. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17072307. [PMID: 32235421 PMCID: PMC7177438 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17072307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background: This research aimed to analyze the psychophysiological stress response of air crews in an underwater evacuation training. Materials and Methods: We analyzed in 36 participants (39.06 ± 9.01 years) modifications in the rating of perceived exertion (RPE), subjective stress perception (SSP), heart rate (HR), blood oxygen saturation (BOS), cortical arousal (critical flicker fusion threshold, CFFT), heart rate variability (HRV), spirometry, isometric hand strength (IHS), and short-term memory (ST-M) before and after an underwater evacuation training. Results: The maneuver produced a significant (p ≤ 0.05) increase in the SSP, RPE, Mean HR and maximum HR (Max HR), and a decrease in minimum HR (Min HR) and HRV. Conclusion: An underwater evacuation training produced an increase in the sympathetic nervous system modulation, elevating the psychophysiological stress response of the air crews, not negatively affecting their cortical arousal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Vicente-Rodríguez
- Psychophysiological Research Group, European University of Madrid, Tajo Street, s/n, 28670 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Juan Pedro Fuentes-Garcia
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, University of Extremadura, Av. de la Universidad, S/N, 10003 Cáceres, Spain;
| | - Vicente Javier Clemente-Suárez
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Tajo Street, s/n, 28670 Madrid, Spain
- Grupo de Investigación en Cultura, Educación y Sociedad, Universidad de la Costa, 080002 Barranquilla, Colombia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-90-2232350; Fax: +34-911-413-585
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13
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Tornero Aguilera JF, Gil-Cabrera J, Clemente-Suárez VJ. Determining the psychophysiological responses of military aircrew when exposed to acute disorientation stimuli. BMJ Mil Health 2020; 168:112-116. [PMID: 32205329 DOI: 10.1136/bmjmilitary-2020-001417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Exposure to enviromental flight conditions may impair performance and physical integrity, thus training in simulated environments it is a key factor. This research aimed to study the psychophysiological response, cortical arousal and autonomic modulation of pilots and medical aircrew personnel during disorientation exposure, considering gender, experience, flying hours and body mass index (BMI) as influencial variables. METHODS A total of 47 soldiers (37 men and 10 women, 22 medical aircrew personnel and 25 fighter pilots) of Spanish Air Forces faced 25 min of vestibular, proprioceptive and visual disorientation. RESULTS Disorientation exposure elicited an increased psychophysiological response, significant increases in isometric hand strength, cortical arousal, autonomic modulation, perceived stress and effort in both groups while a significant decrease in respiratory muscle capacity and blood oxygen saturation in the medical aircrew group were found. Cross-sectional analysis showed gender differences, males presented greater parasympathetic activity and strength. Larger BMI was associated with greater levels and perception of stress as well as lower cardiovascular performance and sympathetic modulation. Furthermore, experience, previous training and larger flying hours correlated with greater parasympathetic modulation. CONCLUSION Disorientation exposure produces an increase in cortical arousal and decrease in the parasympathetic nervous system either in pilots and medical aircrew personnel. In addition, medical aircrew personnel are less adapted to disorientation stimulus presenting significantly higher psychophysiological stress response, thus complementary physical training should be mandatory.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Francisco Tornero Aguilera
- Department of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,CESCA, Research Centre in Applied Combat, Toledo, Spain
| | - J Gil-Cabrera
- Department of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - V J Clemente-Suárez
- Department of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Madrid, Spain .,Grupo de Investigación en Cultura, Educación y Sociedad, Universidad de la Costa, Barranquilla, Colombia
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Tornero-Aguilera JF, Fernandez-Elias VE, Clemente-Suárez VJ. Ready for Combat, Psychophysiological Modifications in a Close-Quarter Combat Intervention After an Experimental Operative High-Intensity Interval Training. J Strength Cond Res 2020; 36:732-737. [DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000003495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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15
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Sousa CV, Nikolaidis PT, Clemente-Suárez VJ, Rosemann T, Knechtle B. Pacing and Performance Analysis of the World's Fastest Female Ultra-Triathlete in 5x and 10x Ironman. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17051543. [PMID: 32121027 PMCID: PMC7084313 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17051543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present case study was to analyse the performance data of the world’s best female ultra-triathlete setting a new world record in a Quintuple (5xIronman) and Deca Iron (10xIronman) ultra-triathlon, within and between race days, and between disciplines (cycling and running) and races (Quintuple and Deca Iron ultra-triathlon). The subject was an elite female triathlete (52 kg, 169 cm) born in 1983. At the time of her world record in Quintuple Iron ultra-triathlon she had an age of 35 years and at the time of the world record in Deca Iron ultra-triathlon 36 years old. The distribution of time spent in each discipline and transitions was 8.48% in swimming, 51.67% cycling, 37.91% running, and 1.94% transitions. There was no difference between the race days of the average speed neither in cycling nor running. The running pace had a within-day variation larger than the cycling pace, and also varied more between race days. In conclusion, the world’s best female ultra-triathlete adopted a steady (even) pacing strategy for both cycling and running, without substantial variations within- or between race days, for both the world record in a Quintuple and a Deca Iron ultra-triathlon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caio Victor Sousa
- Bouve College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | | | - Vicente Javier Clemente-Suárez
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, European University of Madrid, C/ Tajo, s/n. Urb. El Bosque, 28670 Villaviciosa de Odón, Spain;
- Grupo de Investigación en Cultura, Educación y Sociedad, Universidad de la Costa, Barranquilla 080002, Colombia
| | - Thomas Rosemann
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Pestalozzistr. 24, CH-8001 Zurich, Switzerland;
| | - Beat Knechtle
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Pestalozzistr. 24, CH-8001 Zurich, Switzerland;
- Medbase St. Gallen Am Vadianplatz, Vadianstrasse 26, 9001 St. Gallen, Switzerland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +417-12-26-9300
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Tornero Aguilera JF, Fernandez Elias V, Clemente-Suárez VJ. Autonomic and cortical response of soldiers in different combat scenarios. BMJ Mil Health 2020; 167:172-176. [PMID: 32111675 DOI: 10.1136/jramc-2019-001285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The study of chronic and acute responses when exposed to extreme, aggressive and stressful environments, such as in combat environments, is becoming increasingly popular as such information leads to better optimisation of soldiers' physical and psychological performance, as well as mission effectiveness and efficiency. Due to internal complexity, uncertainty and variability of real combat scenarios, a specific approach to all possible types of military combat scenarios is necessary. METHODS Modifications in the autonomic modulation and cortical arousal before and after asymmetrical, symmetrical and close quarter combat simulations were analysed in 31 male professional veteran soldiers (age: 34.5±4.2 years) with between seven and 18 years of experience in their respective units, as well as experience in international missions in current conflict areas such as Lebanon, Afghanistan, Bosnia, Kosovo and Iraq. RESULTS The three combat situations produced a non-significant decrease in cortical arousal after combat simulations, presenting a trivial effect size in symmetrical and close quarter combat situations and a small effect size in asymmetrical situations. HR increased significantly in the three combat situations, and close quarter combat produced the highest sympathetic modulation of the three situations analysed. CONCLUSION Symmetrical, asymmetrical and close quarter combat situations produced an increase in sympathetic modulation, being highest in the close quarter combat situation, where actions are performed at a close distance and in closed spaces.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - V Fernandez Elias
- Universidad Europea de Madrid. Faculty of Sport Sciences, Madrid, Spain
| | - V J Clemente-Suárez
- Universidad Europea de Madrid. Faculty of Sport Sciences, Madrid, Spain .,Grupo de Investigación en Cultura, Educación y Sociedad, Universidad de la Costa, Barranquilla, Colombia
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Hormeño-Holgado AJ, Nikolaidis PT, Clemente-Suárez VJ. Psychophysiological Patterns Related to Success in a Special Operation Selection Course. Front Physiol 2019; 10:867. [PMID: 31354520 PMCID: PMC6636462 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Actual theaters of operations require fast actions from special operations units with a high level of readiness and survival. Mission accomplishment depends on their psychological and physiological performance. The aim of the present study was to analyze: (1) the physical parameters related with success in a special operation selection course; and (2) the modifications of the psychological profile of recruits before and after a special operation selection course. Fifty-five male soldiers of the Spanish Army (25.1 ± 5.0 years, 1.8 ± 0.1 cm, 76.8 ± 7.9 kg, 24.4 ± 2.5 kg/m2) undertaking a 10-week special operation selection course performed a battery of physiological and psychological tests. Results showed how successful soldiers presented higher leg strength, anaerobic running performance, and cardiovascular response than non-successful soldiers. The psychological values of life engagement test, acceptance and action questionnaire, coping flexibility scale, and perceived stress scale did not present significant differences after the selection course. We can conclude that success in a special operation selection course was related to higher anaerobic and cardiovascular fitness. This special operation selection course did not modify the psychological profile of successful soldiers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto J Hormeño-Holgado
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Villaviciosa de Odón, Spain.,Studies Centre in Applied Combat (CESCA), Toledo, Spain
| | | | - Vicente J Clemente-Suárez
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Villaviciosa de Odón, Spain.,Studies Centre in Applied Combat (CESCA), Toledo, Spain.,Grupo de Investigación en Cultura, Educación y Sociedad, Universidad de la Costa, Barranquilla, Colombia
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Merchan A, Clemente-Suárez VJ. Psychophysiological modifications in an assault infantry manoeuvre using a chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear personal protective equipment. BMJ Mil Health 2019; 166:62-66. [DOI: 10.1136/jramc-2019-001166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
IntroductionThe study of the psychophysiological response during combat actions has been poorly researched despite its importance for warfighter training and specific instruction. The aim of the present investigation was to analyse the effect of chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear personal protective equipment (PPE) on the psychophysiological response, mechanical and physical load and fine motor skills of professional soldiers in an endurance infantry manoeuvre.Methods16 soldiers conducted an assault manoeuvre with and without the PEE in separate days. We analysed before and after the manoeuvre the psychophysiological response, fine motor skills, shooting test accuracy and anxiety state.ResultsThe use of PPE produced significantly higher (p<0.05) stress, fatigue, temperature, HR, somatic anxiety and time in middle and high HR zones and significantly lower values in speed average and maximum speed. These findings can be used to improve the training and specific instruction for professionals who require the use of PPE equipment.ConclusionThe use of the PPE suit in an assault manoeuvre produces a decrease in the speed of movement, an increase in HR, body temperature, somatic anxiety and subjective perception of effort.
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Delgado-Moreno R, Robles-Pérez JJ, Aznar-Laín S, Clemente-Suárez VJ. Effect of Experience and Psychophysiological Modification by Combat Stress in Soldier’s Memory. J Med Syst 2019; 43:150. [DOI: 10.1007/s10916-019-1261-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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