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Kargl CK, Sterczala AJ, Santucci D, Conkright WR, Krajewski KT, Martin BJ, Greeves JP, O'Leary TJ, Wardle SL, Sahu A, Ambrosio F, Nindl BC. Circulating extracellular vesicle characteristics differ between men and women following 12 weeks of concurrent exercise training. Physiol Rep 2024; 12:e16016. [PMID: 38697940 PMCID: PMC11065700 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.16016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Concurrent resistance and endurance exercise training (CET) has well-studied benefits; however, inherent hormonal and genetic differences alter adaptive responses to exercise between sexes. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are factors that contribute to adaptive signaling. Our purpose was to test if EV characteristics differ between men and women following CET. 18 young healthy participants underwent 12-weeks of CET. Prior to and following CET, subjects performed an acute bout of heavy resistance exercise (AHRET) consisting of 6 × 10 back squats at 75% 1RM. At rest and following AHRET, EVs were isolated from plasma and characteristics and miRNA contents were analyzed. AHRET elevated EV abundance in trained men only (+51%) and AHRET-induced changes were observed for muscle-derived EVs and microvesicles. There were considerable sex-specific effects of CET on EV miRNAs, highlighted by larger variation following the 12-week program in men compared to women at rest. Pathway analysis based on differentially expressed EV miRNAs predicted that AHRET and 12 weeks of CET in men positively regulates hypertrophy and growth pathways more so than in women. This report highlights sex-based differences in the EV response to resistance and concurrent exercise training and suggests that EVs may be important adaptive signaling factors altered by exercise training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher K. Kargl
- Neuromuscular Research Lab/Warrior Human Performance Research CenterUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Adam J. Sterczala
- Neuromuscular Research Lab/Warrior Human Performance Research CenterUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Daniella Santucci
- Neuromuscular Research Lab/Warrior Human Performance Research CenterUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - William R. Conkright
- Neuromuscular Research Lab/Warrior Human Performance Research CenterUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Kellen T. Krajewski
- Neuromuscular Research Lab/Warrior Human Performance Research CenterUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Brian J. Martin
- Neuromuscular Research Lab/Warrior Human Performance Research CenterUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Julie P. Greeves
- Army Health and Performance Research, Army HeadquartersAndoverUK
- Division of Surgery and Interventional ScienceUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- Norwich Medical SchoolUniversity of East AngliaNorwichUK
| | - Thomas J. O'Leary
- Army Health and Performance Research, Army HeadquartersAndoverUK
- Division of Surgery and Interventional ScienceUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Sophie L. Wardle
- Army Health and Performance Research, Army HeadquartersAndoverUK
- Division of Surgery and Interventional ScienceUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Amrita Sahu
- Department of Physical Medicine and RehabilitationUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational HealthUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Fabrisia Ambrosio
- Discovery Center for Musculoskeletal Recovery, Schoen Adams Research Institute at SpauldingBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of Physical Medicine & RehabilitationHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Bradley C. Nindl
- Neuromuscular Research Lab/Warrior Human Performance Research CenterUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational HealthUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
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Xiang L, Zeng X, Luo Y, Tan S, Wang F, Mao X. The association between psychological resilience and hair cortisol concentration in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Psychiatry Med 2024; 59:182-198. [PMID: 37222570 DOI: 10.1177/00912174231178108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Resilience measures are typically based on subjective self-assessment, which is prone to bias. Objective biological/physiological measures of resilience are therefore needed. Hair cortisol concentration is a particularly promising candidate as a biomarker for resilience. METHODS We conducted a meta-analytic review from inception to April 2023 in PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Psych Info databases. All data were analyzed using a random-effects model. RESULTS Eight studies were identified that included a total of 1,064 adults. The random effects model demonstrated that resilience and hair cortisol concentration were inversely correlated (r = -0.18, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -0.27 to -0.09) with substantial heterogeneity (I2 = 54.2%, p = 0.03). The inverse association was stronger in those who were age 40 years or younger compared to those who were over 40 years. The correlation coefficients between psychological resilience and hair cortisol concentration among adults assessed by different resilience measures were r = -0.29 (95% CI = -0.49 to -0.08) for the CD-RISC-10; r = -0.21 (95% CI = -0.31 to -0.11) for the CDRISC- 25, and r = -0.08 (95% CI = -0.22 to 0.06) for the BRS. Six of eight studies examined the connection between resilience and perceived stress, where the weighted mean correlation coefficient was r = -0.45 (95% CI = -0.56 to -0.33), with considerable heterogeneity (I2 = 76.2%, p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS There is a negative association between psychological resilience and hair cortisol concentration based on these eight studies. Additional research, particularly prospective studies, is needed to determine whether hair cortisol concentration can be used as a biomarker for psychological resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- LiWen Xiang
- School of Nursing, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xia Zeng
- Emergence Intensive Care Unit, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - YinXia Luo
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- School of Medicine, Guang'an Vocational and Technical College
| | - SuFang Tan
- School of Nursing, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Emergence Intensive Care Unit, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - XiaoRong Mao
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- General Surgery Area, Department of Nursing, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
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Navickienė O, Vasiliauskas AV. The effect of cadet resilience on self-efficacy and professional achievement: verification of the moderated mediating effect of vocational calling. Front Psychol 2024; 14:1330969. [PMID: 38259580 PMCID: PMC10800948 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1330969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The primary objective of this study was to empirically examine the influence of cadets' resilience on their professional achievement within the unique context of a Military Academy. In doing so, the study sought to delineate the role of self-efficacy as a key mediator in the intricate relationship between the resilience of cadets and their professional achievements. The main focus of this study was to clarify the causal and effect relationships between the psychology and behavior mechanisms of the cadets. This was achieved through rigorous scrutiny of the moderated mediating effect of vocational calling within the multifaceted relationship involving cadets' resilience, self-efficacy, and professional achievement. Methods The study's participant pool consisted of 121 individuals, comprising cadets in their third and fourth years of study, all of whom aspired to attain the rank of officer within the Military Academy. To rigorously investigate the hypotheses presented, a series of causal relationships among the four core variables were evaluated using a robust regression analysis methodology. To facilitate this analysis, the PROCESS macro 3.5v, a Hayes-developed tool, was effectively used. Results The findings of this study revealed several critical insights. First, vocational calling emerged as a potent moderating factor in shaping the relationship between cadets' resilience and self-efficacy. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that vocational calling exerted a conditional influence on the impact of cadets' resilience on their professional achievement, with self-efficacy serving as a crucial mediating mechanism in this relationship. In particular, the study affirmed that self-efficacy functioned as a comprehensive mediator, elucidating the pathway through which the resilience of the cadets ultimately influenced their professional achievements. Conclusion The results of this research contribute significantly to enhancing our understanding of the intricate connection between the resilience levels exhibited by cadets and their corresponding professional achievements. Furthermore, these findings have valuable implications for the ongoing refinement of military education and training programs. They offer insights that could inform the development of more effective testing and selection protocols for military personnel, ultimately benefiting the armed forces in their pursuit of excellence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Navickienė
- Logistics and Defense Technology Management Research Group, General Jonas Zemaitis Military Academy of Lithuania, Vilnius, Lithuania
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Pihlainen K, Santtila M, Nindl BC, Raitanen J, Ojanen T, Vaara JP, Helén J, Nykänen T, Kyröläinen H. Changes in physical performance, body composition and physical training during military operations: systematic review and meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2023; 13:21455. [PMID: 38052976 PMCID: PMC10698179 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-48712-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Systematic review and meta-analysis applying PRISMA guidelines with a PICOS format was constructed to provide an overview of changes in physical performance, body composition and physical training in soldiers during prolonged (≥ 3 months) military operations. Twenty-four studies out of the screened 4431 records filled the inclusion criteria. A small decrease in endurance performance was the most consistent finding (Hedge's g [g] - 0.21, 95% CI - 0.01 to - 0.41) while small overall increases in maximal strength of the lower (g 0.33, 95% CI 0.16-0.50) and upper body (g 0.33, 95% CI 0.19-0.46) were observed. In addition, small increases in strength endurance (push-up, g 0.34, 95% CI 0.15-0.52; sit-up g 0.26, 95% CI 0.07-0.44) were observed. The overall changes in body composition were trivial. Heterogeneity in the outcome variables varied mainly between low to moderate. Large inter-individual variations were observed in physical training volume, including decrements especially in endurance training frequency and volume. A reduction in total training load was often associated with negative changes in body composition and physical performance according to the principle of training specificity. Individuals with higher initial fitness level were more susceptible to decrements in their physical performance during operation.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Pihlainen
- Human Performance Sector, Training Division, Defence Command, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - M Santtila
- Department of Leadership and Military Pedagogy, National Defence University, Helsinki, Finland
| | - B C Nindl
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory/Warrior Human Performance Research Center, Department of Sports Medicine, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - J Raitanen
- Faculty of Social Sciences (Health Sciences), Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- UKK Institute for Health Promotion Research, Tampere, Finland
| | - T Ojanen
- Human Performance Division, Finnish Defence Research Agency, Tuusula, Finland
| | - J P Vaara
- Department of Leadership and Military Pedagogy, National Defence University, Helsinki, Finland
| | - J Helén
- Department of Leadership and Military Pedagogy, National Defence University, Helsinki, Finland
| | - T Nykänen
- Army Academy, Finnish Defence Forces, Lappeenranta, Finland
| | - H Kyröläinen
- Department of Leadership and Military Pedagogy, National Defence University, Helsinki, Finland
- Neuromuscular Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyvaskyla, Finland
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Tian ZR, Sharma A, Muresanu DF, Sharma S, Feng L, Zhang Z, Li C, Buzoianu AD, Lafuente JV, Nozari A, Sjöqvisst PO, Wiklund L, Sharma HS. Nicotine neurotoxicity exacerbation following engineered Ag and Cu (50-60 nm) nanoparticles intoxication. Neuroprotection with nanowired delivery of antioxidant compound H-290/51 together with serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonist ondansetron. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 172:189-233. [PMID: 37833012 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2023.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Nicotine abuse is frequent worldwide leading to about 8 millions people die every year due to tobacco related diseases. Military personnel often use nicotine smoking that is about 12.8% higher than civilian populations. Nicotine smoking triggers oxidative stress and are linked to several neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. Nicotine neurotoxicity induces significant depression and oxidative stress in the brain leading to neurovascular damages and brain pathology. Thus, details of nicotine neurotoxicity and factors influencing them require additional investigations. In this review, effects of engineered nanoparticles from metals Ag and Cu (50-60 nm) on nicotine neurotoxicity are discussed with regard to nicotine smoking. Military personnel often work in the environment where chances of nanoparticles exposure are quite common. In our earlier studies, we have shown that nanoparticles alone induces breakdown of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and exacerbates brain pathology in animal models. In present investigation, nicotine exposure in with Ag or Cu nanoparticles intoxicated group exacerbated BBB breakdown, induce oxidative stress and aggravate brain pathology. Treatment with nanowired H-290/51 a potent chain-breaking antioxidant together with nanowired ondansetron, a potent 5-HT3 receptor antagonist significantly reduced oxidative stress, BBB breakdown and brain pathology in nicotine exposure associated with Ag or Cu nanoparticles intoxication. The functional significance of this findings and possible mechanisms of nicotine neurotoxicity are discussed based on current literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Ryan Tian
- Dept. Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States
| | - Aruna Sharma
- International Experimental Central Nervous System Injury & Repair (IECNSIR), Dept. of Surgical Sciences, Anesthesiology & Intensive Care Medicine, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Dafin F Muresanu
- Dept. Clinical Neurosciences, University of Medicine & Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; ''RoNeuro'' Institute for Neurological Research and Diagnostic, Mircea Eliade Street, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Suraj Sharma
- Blekinge Institute of Technology, BTH, Karlskrona, Sweden
| | - Lianyuan Feng
- Blekinge Institute of Technology, BTH, Karlskrona, Sweden
| | - Zhiqiang Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Bethune International Peace Hospital, Zhongshan Road (West), Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, P.R. China
| | - Cong Li
- Department of Neurology, Bethune International Peace Hospital, Zhongshan Road (West), Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, P.R. China
| | - Anca D Buzoianu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Dade road No.111, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, P.R. China; Department of Neurosurgery, Chinese Medicine Hospital of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Dade road No.111, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - José Vicente Lafuente
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ala Nozari
- Department of Anesthesiology, Boston University, Albany str, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Per-Ove Sjöqvisst
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lars Wiklund
- International Experimental Central Nervous System Injury & Repair (IECNSIR), Dept. of Surgical Sciences, Anesthesiology & Intensive Care Medicine, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Hari Shanker Sharma
- International Experimental Central Nervous System Injury & Repair (IECNSIR), Dept. of Surgical Sciences, Anesthesiology & Intensive Care Medicine, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; LaNCE, Dept. Neuroscience, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain.
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6
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McClung JP, Beckner ME, Farina EK. Assessing the physiological basis for resilience in military personnel. Stress Health 2023; 39:33-39. [PMID: 37395310 DOI: 10.1002/smi.3271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Military personnel experience training and operational demands that are different from civilian populations, including frequent deployment, exposure to austere environments, and dislocation from family. These unique occupational demands may result in negative impacts on health, performance, and career success. As such, resilience, defined as a system's capacity to resist, recover, recover better, or adapt, to perturbation from a challenge or stressor, is a critical factor in assuring the health and safety of military personnel. In recent years, the Department of Defense (DoD) has funded research programs assessing the physiological basis of resilience. This review will overview research programs, review salient findings from recent studies, and highlight potential future areas of research. Physiological factors influencing or predicting resilience in US military populations, including physical performance, anthropometrics and body composition, nutrition and dietary supplements, and other biomarkers will be highlighted. Finally, this manuscript will detail potential future studies, including interventions, aimed at optimising physiological resilience in military personnel.
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Affiliation(s)
- James P McClung
- Military Nutrition Division, U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Meaghan E Beckner
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, USA
| | - Emily K Farina
- Military Nutrition Division, U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, Massachusetts, USA
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Ojanen T, Pihlainen K, Yli-Renko J, Vaara JP, Nykänen T, Heikkinen R, Kyröläinen H. Effects of 36-hour recovery on marksmanship and hormone concentrations during strenuous winter military survival training. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2023; 15:105. [PMID: 37596657 PMCID: PMC10439591 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-023-00711-6] [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: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Survival training can provide a unique setting for scientific examination of human stress responses and physical performance in a realistic operational military context. The aim of the present study was to observe effects of a 36-h recovery period on serum hormone concentrations, salivary cortisol, and marksmanship during 10-day winter military survival training in north of the Arctic Circle. DESIGN AND METHODS Sixty-eight male soldiers were randomly divided into two groups; EXP (n = 26) and CON (n = 42). While CON performed the whole exercise phase in the field, EXP had 36-h recovery period between days 6 and 8. Several hormones were measured during the study to investigate recovery. RESULTS Subjective physical and mental demand as well as catabolic hormone levels increased and anabolic hormones decreased in CON (p < 0.05), whereas in EXP, recovery period attenuated negative effects of survival training. Prone shooting performance decreased (87.5 ± 6.5 vs. 76.3 ± 8.8, points out of 100, p < 0.05) between days 6 and 8 in CON while EXP was able to maintain shooting performance throughout the study. CONCLUSION A short recovery during a strenuous training can prevent the degradation in psychophysiological state and shooting performance in soldiers, which can be crucial for survival in demanding operational winter environment. In the present study, 36-h rest period during the field training seems to enhance recovery but the duration of the period was inadequate for full recovery from the accumulated operative stress. In conclusion, appropriate recovery periods should be implemented in order to optimize occupational performance during high operative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommi Ojanen
- Finnish Defence Research Agency, Human Performance Division, Finnish Defence Forces, Tuusula, Finland.
| | - Kai Pihlainen
- Defence Command, Training Division, Finnish Defence Forces, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jussi Yli-Renko
- Department of Leadership and Military Pedagogy, National Defence University, Finnish Defence Forces, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jani P Vaara
- Department of Leadership and Military Pedagogy, National Defence University, Finnish Defence Forces, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tarja Nykänen
- Army Academy, Finnish Defence Forces, Lappeenranta, Finland
| | - Risto Heikkinen
- Statistical Analysis Services, Analyysitoimisto Statisti Oy, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Heikki Kyröläinen
- Department of Leadership and Military Pedagogy, National Defence University, Finnish Defence Forces, Helsinki, Finland
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
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Giles GE, Navarro E, Elkin-Frankston S, Brunyé TT, Elmore WR, Seay JF, McKenzie KL, O'Fallon KS, Brown SA, Parham JL, Garlie TN, DeSimone L, Villa JD, Choi-Rokas HE, Mitchell KB, Racicot K, Soares JW, Caruso C, Anderson D, Cantelon JA, Gardony AL, Smith TJ, Karl JP, Jayne JM, Christopher JJ, Talarico MK, Sperlein JN, Boynton AC, Jensen A, Ramsay JW, Eddy MD. Characterizing Relationships Among the Cognitive, Physical, Social-emotional, and Health-related Traits of Military Personnel. Mil Med 2023; 188:e2275-e2283. [PMID: 36705463 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usad002] [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: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Personnel engaged in high-stakes occupations, such as military personnel, law enforcement, and emergency first responders, must sustain performance through a range of environmental stressors. To maximize the effectiveness of military personnel, an a priori understanding of traits can help predict their physical and cognitive performance under stress and adversity. This work developed and assessed a suite of measures that have the potential to predict performance during operational scenarios. These measures were designed to characterize four specific trait-based domains: cognitive, health, physical, and social-emotional. MATERIALS AND METHODS One hundred and ninety-one active duty U.S. Army soldiers completed interleaved questionnaire-based, seated task-based, and physical task-based measures over a period of 3-5 days. Redundancy analysis, dimensionality reduction, and network analyses revealed several patterns of interest. RESULTS First, unique variable analysis revealed a minimally redundant battery of instruments. Second, principal component analysis showed that metrics tended to cluster together in three to five components within each domain. Finally, analyses of cross-domain associations using network analysis illustrated that cognitive, health, physical, and social-emotional domains showed strong construct solidarity. CONCLUSIONS The present battery of metrics presents a fieldable toolkit that may be used to predict operational performance that can be clustered into separate components or used independently. It will aid predictive algorithm development aimed to identify critical predictors of individual military personnel and small-unit performance outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace E Giles
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
- Center for Applied Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Medford, MA 02155, USA
| | - Ester Navarro
- Center for Applied Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Medford, MA 02155, USA
| | - Seth Elkin-Frankston
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
- Center for Applied Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Medford, MA 02155, USA
| | - Tad T Brunyé
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
- Center for Applied Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Medford, MA 02155, USA
| | - Wade R Elmore
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Joseph F Seay
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Kari L McKenzie
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Kevin S O'Fallon
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Stephanie A Brown
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Joseph L Parham
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Todd N Garlie
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Linda DeSimone
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Jose D Villa
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Hyegjoo E Choi-Rokas
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - K Blake Mitchell
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Kenneth Racicot
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Jason W Soares
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Christina Caruso
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Debra Anderson
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Julie A Cantelon
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Aaron L Gardony
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Tracey J Smith
- United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - J Philip Karl
- United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Julianna M Jayne
- United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - John J Christopher
- United States Army Aberdeen Test Center, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21005, USA
| | - Maria K Talarico
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Analysis Center, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21005, USA
| | - Jennifer Neugebauer Sperlein
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Analysis Center, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21005, USA
| | - Angela C Boynton
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Analysis Center, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21005, USA
| | - Andrew Jensen
- Naval Health Research Center, San Diego, CA 92152, USA
| | - John W Ramsay
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Marianna D Eddy
- United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, Natick, MA 01760, USA
- Center for Applied Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Medford, MA 02155, USA
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Main LC, McLoughlin LT, Flanagan SD, Canino MC, Banks S. Monitoring cognitive function in the fatigued warfighter: A rapid review of cognitive biomarkers. J Sci Med Sport 2023:S1440-2440(23)00079-8. [PMID: 37236820 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2023.04.009] [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: 06/05/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Decreases in cognitive function impair occupational performance, reduce occupational safety, and increase musculoskeletal injury risk. The aim of this paper was to identify measures that may be used to monitor cognitive function in the warfighter. DESIGN A rapid review. METHODS A rapid search of Academic Search Complete, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and SPORTSDiscus databases was conducted. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA original peer reviewed research articles, written in English, published between 2002 and 2022, and using human participants with no health issues in military training environments or active service. RESULTS Of the 248 articles screened, 58 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility and 29 included in the review. Of these, 16 papers presented data from multi-stressor military training environments, or experimental studies where simulated military tasks were being performed. Thirteen papers focused on an aspect of military work and the implications for cognitive function (i.e., physical load, periods of extended wakefulness or fatigue, and hypoxic conditions). The domains of cognitive function that were assessed (i.e. vigilance, reaction time, working memory, situational awareness, and decision-making) were somewhat consistent among studies. CONCLUSIONS Prolonged exposure to high-stress military environments compromises multiple aspects of cognitive function. These findings highlight the need for a suite of biomarkers to monitor cognitive function and assess the ability of military personnel to attend to and process mission-critical information and make appropriate decisions on the battlefield and other high-stress environments. Our findings suggest that a suite of common tests may provide useful information about cognitive function in the warfighter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luana C Main
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Australia.
| | - Larisa T McLoughlin
- Behaviour-Brain-Body Research Centre, University of South Australia, Australia.
| | - Shawn D Flanagan
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, University of Pittsburgh, United States.
| | - Maria C Canino
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, University of Pittsburgh, United States.
| | - Siobhan Banks
- Behaviour-Brain-Body Research Centre, University of South Australia, Australia.
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10
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Sekel NM, Beckner ME, Conkright WR, LaGoy AD, Proessl F, Lovalekar M, Martin BJ, Jabloner LR, Beck AL, Eagle SR, Dretsch M, Roma PG, Ferrarelli F, Germain A, Flanagan SD, Connaboy C, Haufler AJ, Nindl BC. Military tactical adaptive decision making during simulated military operational stress is influenced by personality, resilience, aerobic fitness, and neurocognitive function. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1102425. [PMID: 36844343 PMCID: PMC9944034 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1102425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Laboratory-based studies designed to mimic combat or military field training have consistently demonstrated deleterious effects on warfighter's physical, cognitive, and emotional performance during simulated military operational stress (SMOS). Purpose The present investigation sought to determine the impact of a 48-h simulated military operational stress (SMOS) on military tactical adaptive decision making, and the influence of select psychological, physical performance, cognitive, and physiological outcome measures on decision making performance. Methods Male (n = 48, 26.2 ± 5.5 years, 177.7 ± 6.6 cm, 84.7 ± 14.1 kg.) subjects currently serving in the U.S. military were eligible to participate in this study. Eligible subjects completed a 96-h protocol that occurred over five consecutive days and four nights. Day 2 (D2) and day 3 (D3) consisted of 48-h of SMOS wherein sleep opportunity and caloric needs were reduced to 50%. Differences in SPEAR total block score from baseline to peak stress (D3 minus D1) were calculated to assess change in military tactical adaptive decision making and groups were stratified based on increase (high adaptors) or decrease (low adaptors) of the SPEAR change score. Results Overall, military tactical decision-making declined 1.7% from D1 to D3 (p < 0.001). High adaptors reported significantly higher scores of aerobic capacity (p < 0.001), self-report resilience (p = 0.020), extroversion (p < 0.001), and conscientiousness (p < 0.001). at baseline compared to low adaptors, while low adaptors reported greater scores in Neuroticism (p < 0.001). Conclusion The present findings suggest that service members whose adaptive decision making abilities improved throughout SMOS (i.e., high adaptors) demonstrated better baseline psychological/self-reported resilience and aerobic capacity. Further, changes in adaptive decision-making were distinct from those of lower order cognitive functions throughout SMOS exposure. With the transition of future military conflicts placing higher priority on enhancing and sustaining cognitive readiness and resiliency, data presented here demonstrates the importance of measuring and categorizing baseline measures inherent to military personnel, in order to change and train one's ability to suffer less of a decline during high stress conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M. Sekel
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Warrior Human Performance Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States,*Correspondence: Nicole M. Sekel, ✉
| | - Meaghan E. Beckner
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Warrior Human Performance Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - William R. Conkright
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Warrior Human Performance Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Alice D. LaGoy
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Warrior Human Performance Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States,Military Sleep Tactics and Resilience Research Team, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Felix Proessl
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Warrior Human Performance Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Mita Lovalekar
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Warrior Human Performance Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Brian J. Martin
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Warrior Human Performance Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Leslie R. Jabloner
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Warrior Human Performance Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Alaska L. Beck
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Warrior Human Performance Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Shawn R. Eagle
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Warrior Human Performance Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Michael Dretsch
- U.S. Army Medical Research Directorate-West, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, WA, United States
| | - Peter G. Roma
- Behavioral Health and Performance Laboratory, Biomedical Research and Environmental Sciences Division, Human Health and Performance Directorate, KBR/NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, United States,Warfighter Performance Department, Operational Readiness and Health Directorate, Leidos/Naval Health Research Center, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Fabio Ferrarelli
- Military Sleep Tactics and Resilience Research Team, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Anne Germain
- Military Sleep Tactics and Resilience Research Team, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Shawn D. Flanagan
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Warrior Human Performance Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Christopher Connaboy
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Warrior Human Performance Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Amy J. Haufler
- Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, Laurel, MD, United States
| | - Bradley C. Nindl
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Warrior Human Performance Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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11
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Ponce T, Mainenti MRM, Cardoso EL, Ramos de Barros T, Pinto Salerno V, Vaisman M. Military field training exercise with prolonged physical activity and sleep restriction causes hormonal imbalance in firefighter cadets. J Endocrinol Invest 2023; 46:381-391. [PMID: 36057045 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-022-01913-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the impact of the "Search and rescue" field military training exercise (SR_FTX) on hormonal modulation and identify their possible correlation with physical and cognitive performance. METHODS An observational (before and after) study was carried out, with male firefighters cadets (n = 42; age = 23[22;27] years) undergoing a nine-day military exercise (SR_FTX). The Countermovement jump (physical performance), the Stroop test (cognitive alertness), and blood tests for testosterone, cortisol, GH, and IGF-1 were applied. Wilcoxon for paired samples and Spearman's correlation tests were used. RESULTS Testosterone (751.10 [559.10;882.8] vs. 108.40 [80.12;156.40] ng/dL) and IGF-1 (217.5 [180;239.30] vs. 105 [93;129] ng/mL) significantly decreased while GH (0.10 [0.06;0.18] vs. 1.10 [0.58;2.28] ng/mL) and cortisol (9.60 [8.20;11.55] vs. 15.55 [12.28;18.98] ug/dL) significantly increased. Physical performance (31.2 [30.04;35.4] vs. 21.49 [19,02;23,59] cm) and cognitive alertness were significantly worse after SR_FTX (Congruent task: 1,78 (0183) vs. 1,56 (0185) response/s and incongruous task: 1,23 (0191) vs. 1,02 (0207) response/s). The physical performance showed a strong correlation with testosterone (rho = 0.694) and regular correlations with both IGF-1 (rho = 0.598) and cortisol (rho = - 0.580). The Stroop test presented weak correlations with GH (rho = - 0.350) and cortisol (rho = - 0.361). CONCLUSION SR_FTX negatively impacted hormonal modulation, physical and cognitive performance. These findings could help commanders decide to replace the employed firefighters in a real mission more frequently. Also, if the real scenario allows, they could think about providing better work conditions, such as improving caloric intake and rest periods, to preserve the military performance and health.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Ponce
- Academia de Bombeiro Militar Dom Pedro II (Dom Pedro II Military Firefighter Academy-ABMDPII), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21660-001, Brazil.
- Escola de Educação Física E Desportos (Physical Education and Sports College of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro-EEFD/UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-599, Brazil.
- Faculdade de Medicina-Endocrinologia (Medicine Collegof the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro-FM-UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-617, Brazil.
| | - M R M Mainenti
- Escola de Educação Física do Exército (Physical Education College of the Brazilian Army-EsEFEx), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 22291-090, Brazil
| | - E L Cardoso
- Escola de Educação Física E Desportos (Physical Education and Sports College of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro-EEFD/UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-599, Brazil
- Faculdade de Medicina-Endocrinologia (Medicine Collegof the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro-FM-UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-617, Brazil
| | - T Ramos de Barros
- Academia de Bombeiro Militar Dom Pedro II (Dom Pedro II Military Firefighter Academy-ABMDPII), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21660-001, Brazil
- Escola de Educação Física E Desportos (Physical Education and Sports College of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro-EEFD/UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-599, Brazil
| | - V Pinto Salerno
- Escola de Educação Física E Desportos (Physical Education and Sports College of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro-EEFD/UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-599, Brazil
| | - M Vaisman
- Faculdade de Medicina-Endocrinologia (Medicine Collegof the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro-FM-UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-617, Brazil
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12
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Physiological biomarker monitoring during arduous military training: Maintaining readiness and performance. J Sci Med Sport 2022:S1440-2440(22)00502-3. [PMID: 36631385 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2022.12.005] [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: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Physiological and psychological stressors can degrade soldiers' readiness and performance during military training and operational environments. Integrative and holistic assessments of biomarkers across diverse human performance optimization domains during multistressor training can be leveraged to provide actionable insight to military leadership regarding service member health and readiness. DESIGN/METHOD A broad categorization of biomarkers, to include biochemical measures, bone and body composition, psychometric assessments, movement screening, and physiological load can be incorporated into robust analytical pipelines for understanding the complex factors that impact military human performance. RESULTS In this perspective commentary we overview the rationale, selection, and methodologies for monitoring biomarker domains that are relevant to military research and specifically highlight methods that have been incorporated in a research program funded by the Office of Naval Research, Code 34 Biological and Physiological Monitoring and Modeling of Warfighter Performance. CONCLUSIONS The integration of screening and continuous monitoring methodologies via robust analytical approaches will provide novel insight for military leaders regarding health, performance, and readiness outcomes during multistressor military training.
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13
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L Tait J, M Bulmer S, M Drake J, R Drain J, C Main L. Impact of 12 weeks of basic military training on testosterone and cortisol responses. BMJ Mil Health 2022:e002179. [PMID: 36316059 DOI: 10.1136/military-2022-002179] [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: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Military personnel train and operate in challenging multistressor environments, which can affect hormonal levels, and subsequently compromise performance and recovery. The aims of this project were to evaluate concentrations of cortisol and testosterone and subjective perceptions of stress and recovery across basic military training (BMT). METHODS 32 male recruits undergoing BMT were tracked over a 12-week course. Saliva samples were collected weekly, on waking, 30 min postwaking and bedtime. Perceptions of stress and recovery were collected weekly. Daily physical activity (steps) were measured via wrist-mounted accelerometers across BMT. Physical fitness was assessed via the multistage fitness test and push-ups in weeks 2 and 8. RESULTS Concentrations of testosterone and cortisol, and the testosterone:cortisol ratio changed significantly across BMT, with variations in responses concurrent with programmatic demands. Perceptions of stress and recovery also fluctuated according to training elements. Recruits averaged 17 027 steps per day between weeks 2 and 12, with week-to-week variations. On average, recruits significantly increased predicted VO2max (3.6 (95% CI 1.0 to 6.1) mL/kg/min) and push-ups (5. 5 (95% CI 1.4 to 9.7) repetitions) between weeks 2 and 8. CONCLUSIONS Recruit stress responses oscillated over BMT in line with programmatic demands indicating that BMT was, at a group level, well-tolerated with no signs of enduring physiological strain or overtraining. The sensitivity of cortisol, testosterone and the testosterone:cortisol ratio to the stressors of military training, suggest they may have a role in monitoring physiological strain in military personnel. Subjective measures may also have utility within a monitoring framework to help ensure adaptive, rather than maladaptive (eg, injury, attrition), outcomes in military recruits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie L Tait
- Deakin University, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - S M Bulmer
- Deakin University, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - J M Drake
- Deakin University, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - J R Drain
- Defence Science and Technology Group, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - L C Main
- Deakin University, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Burwood, Victoria, Australia
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14
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Factors Predicting Training Delays and Attrition of Recruits during Basic Military Training. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19127271. [PMID: 35742522 PMCID: PMC9223722 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19127271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Ensuring a balance between training demands and recovery during basic military training (BMT) is necessary for avoiding maladaptive training responses (e.g., illness or injury). These can lead to delays in training completion and to training attrition. Previously identified predictors of injury and attrition during BMT include demographic and performance data, which are typically collected at a single time point. The aim of this study was to determine individual risk factors for injury and training delays from a suite of measures collected across BMT. A total of 46 male and female recruits undertaking the 12-week Australian Army BMT course consented to this study. Injury, illness, attrition, and demographic data were collected across BMT. Objective measures included salivary cortisol and testosterone, step counts, cardiorespiratory fitness, and muscular endurance. Perceptions of well-being, recovery, workload, fatigue, and sleep were assessed with questionnaires. Baseline and mean scores across BMT were evaluated as predictors of injury and attrition using generalized linear regressions, while repeated-measures ANOVA was used for the group comparisons. From the 46 recruits, 36 recruits completed BMT on time; 10 were delayed in completion or discharged. Multiple risk factors for injury during BMT included higher subjective ratings of training load, fatigue, and stress, lower sleep quality, and higher cortisol concentrations. Higher ratings of depression, anxiety, and stress, and more injuries were associated with a higher risk of delayed completion. Higher concentrations of testosterone and higher levels of fitness upon entry to BMT were associated with reduced risk of injury and delayed completion of BMT. Ongoing monitoring with a suite of easily administered measures may have utility in forewarning risk of training maladaptation in recruits and may complement strategies to address previously identified demographic and performance-based risk factors to mitigate injury, training delays, and attrition.
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15
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Beckner ME, Conkright WR, Mi Q, Martin BJ, Sahu A, Flanagan SD, Ledford AK, Wright M, Susmarski A, Ambrosio F, Nindl BC. Neuroendocrine, Inflammatory, and Extracellular Vesicle Responses During the Navy Special Warfare Screener Selection Course. Physiol Genomics 2022; 54:283-295. [PMID: 35695270 PMCID: PMC9291410 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00184.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Military operational stress is known to increase adrenal hormones and inflammatory cytokines, while decreasing hormones associated with the anabolic milieu and neuroendocrine system. Less is known about the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs), a form of cell-to-cell communication, in military operational stress and their relationship to circulating hormones. PURPOSE To characterize the neuroendocrine, cytokine, and EV response to an intense, 24-h selection course known as the Naval Special Warfare (NSW) Screener and identify associations between EVs and cytokines. METHODS Blood samples were collected the morning of and following the NSW Screener in 29 men (18 - 26 years). Samples were analyzed for concentrations of cortisol, insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), neuropeptide-Y (NPY), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), α-klotho, tumor necrosis factor- α (TNFα), and interleukins (IL) -1β, -6, and -10. EVs stained with markers associated with exosomes (CD63), microvesicles (VAMP3), and apoptotic bodies (THSD1) were characterized using imaging flow cytometry and vesicle flow cytometry. RESULTS The selection event induced significant changes in circulating BDNF (-43.2%), IGF-I (-24.56%), TNFα (+17.7%), IL-6 (+13.6%), accompanied by increases in intensities of THSD1+ and VAMP3+ EVs (all p<0.05). Higher concentrations of IL-1β and IL-10 were positively associated with THSD1+ EVs (p<0.05). CONCLUSION Military operational stress altered the EV profile. Surface markers associated with apoptotic bodies were positively correlated with an inflammatory response. Future studies should consider a multi-omics assessment of EV cargo to discern canonical pathways that may be mediated by EVs during military stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meaghan E Beckner
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory/Warrior Human Performance Research Center, Department of Sports Medicine and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - William R Conkright
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory/Warrior Human Performance Research Center, Department of Sports Medicine and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Qi Mi
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory/Warrior Human Performance Research Center, Department of Sports Medicine and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Brian J Martin
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory/Warrior Human Performance Research Center, Department of Sports Medicine and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Amrita Sahu
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Shawn D Flanagan
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory/Warrior Human Performance Research Center, Department of Sports Medicine and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Andrew K Ledford
- Department of Leadership, Ethics, and Law, U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis, MD, United States
| | - Martin Wright
- Human Performance Lab, Physical Education Department, U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis, MD, United States
| | - Adam Susmarski
- Brigade Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, U.S. Navy Academy, Annapolis, MD, United States
| | - Fabrisia Ambrosio
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Bradley C Nindl
- Neuromuscular Research Laboratory/Warrior Human Performance Research Center, Department of Sports Medicine and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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Reserve Soldiers’ Psychological Resilience Impact to Sustainable Military Competences: On the Mediating Role of Psychological Skills (Effort, Self-Efficacy, Proactivity). SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14116810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This research aims to explore an analytical model, gauge the interplay between psychological resilience and achieved military competencies, and examine an intermediary role of effort, proactivity, and self-efficacy. In this study, 337 reserve soldiers from Lithuania were investigated with the Lithuanian Military Training Competences Assessment Scale, Resilience Scale, Self-Efficacy Scale, Short Grit Scale (Grit-S), and Proactivity Scale. Our findings highlighted the importance of the psychological resilience of reserve soldiers due to its positive relationship with the personality traits. Implicit interconnectedness between psychological resilience and psychological skills together with military competences was researched, and it became evident that self-efficacy determined a statistically important mediating role (indirect effect = 0.264 **, p < 0.05) between reservists’ psychological resilience and perceived military training course results. However, the other components included in the study did not have a mediating effect (effort indirect effect = 0.03, p > 0.1; proactivity indirect effect = 0.094, p > 0.1). The research findings are important because of greater prominence of the role of reserve troops in military operations around the world and achievements in the domain of security and defense. This study has great theoretical and empirical value in making decisions concerning the psychological resilience of reserve soldiers’ promotion and sustainable improvement of military preparedness strategies.
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17
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Seravalle G, Grassi G. Sympathetic nervous system and hypertension: New evidences. Auton Neurosci 2022; 238:102954. [PMID: 35151003 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2022.102954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Evidences collected in the past few years have strengthened the concept that the sympathetic nervous system plays a primary role in the development and progression of the hypertensive state, starting from the early stage, and in the hypertension-related cardiovascular diseases. Several pathophysiological mechanisms are involved. Among them the genetic background, the immune system in conjunction with sympathetic activation. The present review will briefly discuss the importance of the above mentioned mechanisms in the development of hypertension. The paper will also examine the sympathetic mechanisms underlying attended vs unattended blood pressure measurements as well as their role in resistant vs pseudo-resistant hypertension. Finally evidence from recent meta-analysis on the relevance of sympathetic nerve traffic activation in the pathogenesis of hypertension will be briefly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gino Seravalle
- Cardiology Department, IRCCS S. Luca Hospital, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Guido Grassi
- Clinica Medica, S. Gerardo Hospital, University Milano Bicocca, Monza, Italy
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18
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Three-Faceted Approach to Perceived Stress: A Longitudinal Study of Stress Hormones, Personality, and Group Cohesion in the Real-Life Setting of Compulsory Basic Military Training. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14031046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Compulsory basic military training is characterized not only by being challenging but also by being stressful. Assuming a high frequency of perceived stress events as a negative outcome of training, this article provides evidence on how the perceived frequency of stressful situations is affected by three types of factors: (i) biological stress response variables measured by hair steroid hormone levels, (ii) personality traits measured using the Big Five personality test, and (iii) group cohesion measures in military squads. A total of 112 conscripts in 11 squads participated in the research at the beginning (T1), in the middle (T2), and at the end (T3) of compulsory basic military training. Hair steroid hormone levels (cortisol, cortisone, and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)) levels were measured by liquid mass spectrometry; other data were collected using self-report questionnaires. The results of the Poisson regression analysis indicated that hair steroid hormone cortisol had a statistically significantly impact and could increase the perceived frequency of stressful situations by up to 1.317 (e0.275, T2) times. The concentrations of other hormones (cortisone = 1.157, e0.146, T3 and DHEA = 1.020, e0.020, T3) also had a statistically significant effect. Other factors had a decreasing effect on the frequency. Extraversion was significant with an effect of 0.907 (e−0.098, T2) and 0.847 (e−0.166, T3), while task cohesion had an effect of 0.946 (e−0.056) and norm cohesion of 0.954 (e−0.047). The research indicates that the three groups of factors affect the perceived frequency of stressful situations during compulsory basic military training, but their impacts are considerably different.
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Trousselard M, Claverie D, Fromage D, Becker C, Houël JG, Benoliel JJ, Canini F. The Relationship between Allostasis and Mental Health Patterns in a Pre-Deployment French Military Cohort. Eur J Investig Health Psychol Educ 2021; 11:1239-1253. [PMID: 34698145 PMCID: PMC8544679 DOI: 10.3390/ejihpe11040090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: While a number of studies among military personnel focus on specific pathologies such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression, they do not address the cumulative impact on mental health of stressors related to the profession. The present study aims to determine the relationship between allostatic load and mental health status in a cohort of fit-for-duty soldiers prior to their deployment to Afghanistan. The aim is to better-define the consequences of stressor adjustment. (2) Methods: A cohort of 290 soldiers was evaluated in a cross-sectional study with respect to psychopathology (PTSD, anxiety, depression), psychological functioning (stress reactivity, psychological suffering), and allostatic profile (urinary cortisol and 8-iso-PGF2α, blood cortisol and BDNF). A hierarchical cluster analysis was used to identify allostatic patterns. (3) Results: Around 10% of the cohort reported high scores for psychopathology, and biological alterations were identified. For the remainder, four allostatic profiles could be identified by their psychological functioning. (4) Conclusions: Both biological and psychological assessments are needed to characterize subthreshold symptomatology among military personnel. The psychological significance of allostatic load should be considered as a way to improve health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Trousselard
- Département Neurosciences & Sciencs Cognitives, Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées (IRBA), CEDEX, 91223 Brétigny-sur-Orge, France; (D.C.); (D.F.); (F.C.)
- Ecole du Val de Grâce, 1 place A. Laveran, 75005 Paris, France
- APEMAC EA 4360 UDL, 57000 Metz, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-1-78651255
| | - Damien Claverie
- Département Neurosciences & Sciencs Cognitives, Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées (IRBA), CEDEX, 91223 Brétigny-sur-Orge, France; (D.C.); (D.F.); (F.C.)
- Faculteé des Sciences Fondamentales et Biomeédicales, Universiteé de Paris, INSERM UMRS 1124, 45 Rue des Saints-Pères, 75006 Paris, France; (C.B.); (J.-J.B.)
| | - Dominique Fromage
- Département Neurosciences & Sciencs Cognitives, Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées (IRBA), CEDEX, 91223 Brétigny-sur-Orge, France; (D.C.); (D.F.); (F.C.)
- Ecole du Val de Grâce, 1 place A. Laveran, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Christel Becker
- Faculteé des Sciences Fondamentales et Biomeédicales, Universiteé de Paris, INSERM UMRS 1124, 45 Rue des Saints-Pères, 75006 Paris, France; (C.B.); (J.-J.B.)
| | | | - Jean-Jacques Benoliel
- Faculteé des Sciences Fondamentales et Biomeédicales, Universiteé de Paris, INSERM UMRS 1124, 45 Rue des Saints-Pères, 75006 Paris, France; (C.B.); (J.-J.B.)
| | - Frédéric Canini
- Département Neurosciences & Sciencs Cognitives, Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées (IRBA), CEDEX, 91223 Brétigny-sur-Orge, France; (D.C.); (D.F.); (F.C.)
- Ecole du Val de Grâce, 1 place A. Laveran, 75005 Paris, France
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