High Levels Of Stress Research Articles

Dynamic behavior of piled jacket offshore wind turbines based on integrated aero-servo-hydro-SSI-OWT model

Jacket foundation is typically the preferred choice for Offshore Wind Turbines (OWTs) erected in water depth varying from 40 m to 80 m. In this paper, an integrated dynamic analysis model is designed to study the coupling between aerodynamics, servodynamics, hydrodynamics, soil-structure interaction for piled jacket OWTs. The performances of the AeroDyn and ServoDyn modules are verified by FAST, showcasing their applicability under deterministic and stochastic environmental conditions. The OWT dynamic responses, especially for t-z modeling, stress-transfer mechanism and structural fatigue damage, are subsequently studied. The overall deformation of the jacket calculated by the nonlinear elastic t-z curve in the API guideline, is overwhelmed by the t-z curve formulated using bounding surface plasticity framework, due to the ignorance of the loading history effect. Accompanied by a “compressed-released-recompressed” stress-transfer process, the downwind tube would experience high stress level, hence necessitating more attention in the ultimate limit state design of piled jacket structure. Otherwise, the upwind tube seems to be more decisive to the fatigue limit state design of piled jacket structure, owing to severe fluctuation in structural stress caused by a “tensed-released-re-tensed” stress-transfer tendency.

The relationship between hours in bed to examination scores of first year osteopathic medical students

Medical students frequently encounter high levels of stress and pressure, which can negatively affect their mental health and sleep quality, a key determinant of cognitive function and academic success. This study assesses the relationship between hours spent in bed to academic performance among medical students. An observational, cross-sectional survey took place at A.T. Still University - School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona (ATSU-SOMA), involving participants from the 2027 cohort. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire was used and exam scores from the second exam of the fourth block were analyzed. For the purpose of our inquiry, the “Hours in Bed” component score of the PSQI was used for our analysis. The results indicated a significant relationship between sleep effectiveness and exam performance (R² = 0.071, p =4.6×10-48), demonstrating that increased hours in bed was associated with higher exam performance. This research does not address the many other factors that likely play an important role in a student’s academic success. Future studies should investigate the long-term effects of sleep deprivation and explore interventions beyond sleep hygiene, including stress and time management strategies. Understanding the broader impact of sleep on medical education is essential for fostering better outcomes for students in both academic and clinical settings.

Perceived work-related stress and associated factors among the surgical workforce in a Nigerian tertiary health facility: A cross-sectional study

Healthcare workers continue to experience high levels of work-related stress which continue to negatively affect their psychological, physical, and emotional well-being. This is even more prevalent among healthcare workers who work in surgical specialities, with the surgical operation room becoming a known stressor at hospitals. This study aims to assess work-related stress among surgical team members at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital in Zaria between January 2021–2022. Data analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistical approaches using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 23.0. The study found an overall high prevalence of work-related stress, with 65% of participants reporting moderate levels of stress. The majority of the participants have a mean age of 39.4 ± 7.8 years, most of them being physicians (66.3%), being males (59.9%), and identified with a Hausa ethnic tribe. Notably, the multiple regression analysis found that tribe (p = 0.008), professional cadres (p = 0.001) and age/years of experience (p = 0.0035) emerged as significant predictors of work-related stress. Key determinants of work-related stress among surgical team members include workload, complexity of work, and conflicting cognitive job demands that continue to subject professionals to increasing workloads and constant decision-making about their job. Organizational factors, such as job policy and procedure, communication problems, and the nature of facilities, were identified as the highest contributors to work-related stress in organizational, interpersonal, and physical/environmental dimensions. The findings lead to the conclusion that a considerable proportion of surgical team members experience a relatively high level of work-related stress, primarily attributed to workload and cognitive demands. In light of these results, urgent efforts are recommended to improve the working conditions and environment for surgical team members. Furthermore, the integration of stress management measures into the educational programs for the surgical team is emphasized to effectively address and mitigate the impact of work-related stress.

Effect of High-Stress Levels on the Shear Behavior of Geosynthetic-Reinforced Marine Coral Sands

As an important construction material, the mechanical and deformation properties of marine coral sand determine the safety and stability of related island and coastal engineering construction. The porous and easily broken characteristics of coral sand often make it difficult to meet engineering construction needs. In particular, coral sand undergoes a large amount of particle breakage under high-stress conditions, which in turn negatively affects its mechanical and deformation properties. In this study, the macro- and micro-mechanical behavior of geosynthetic-reinforced coral sand under high confining pressure was investigated and compared with unreinforced cases using the three-dimensional discrete element method (DEM), which was verified by indoor triaxial tests. The results showed that the stress–strain responses of unreinforced and reinforced coral sand under high confining pressure showed completely different trends, i.e., the hardening tendency shown in the reinforced case. Geosynthetic reinforcement can significantly inhibit the stress–strain softening and bulging deformation of coral sand under high confining pressure, thus improving the shear mechanical performance of the reinforced sample. At the microscopic scale, high confining pressure and reinforcement affected the contact force distribution pattern and stress level between particles, determining the macroscopic mechanical and deformation performance. In addition, the breakage of particles under high confining pressure was mainly affected by shear strain and reinforcement. The particle fragment distribution, particle gradation, and relative breakage index exhibited different trends at different confining pressure levels. These breakage characteristics were closely related to the deformation and stress levels of unreinforced and reinforced samples.

How Right Now/Qué Hacer Ahora: Findings from an evaluation of a national mental health and coping campaign amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

Beyond its physical health impact, the COVID-19 pandemic also resulted in grief from loss of loved ones, isolation due to social distancing, stress, fear, and economic distress-all of which impacted mental health. How Right Now/Qué Hacer Ahora (HRN) is an award-winning, national campaign that provides emotional support to people disproportionately affected by COVID-19. We conducted a theory-based, culturally responsive evaluation to assess the campaign's effect on coping behaviors and resiliency between summer 2020 and spring 2021. We surveyed HRN's priority audiences (older adults/caregivers and those with preexisting health conditions, experiencing violence, or economic distress) in English and Spanish using NORC's national probability panel, AmeriSpeak, over three waves. We also analyzed social media data and monitored HRN website traffic and triangulated these data to understand the campaign's full impact. Campaign exposure was associated with people who were experiencing higher levels of stress and were more likely to seek information to support their emotional well-being. Campaign exposure was also positively associated with increased feelings of resilience and confidence in using coping strategies, especially for people experiencing violence or economic distress and people from racial and ethnic groups. Findings demonstrate the campaign's success in reaching its intended audiences with the mental health support they needed. Additionally, the HRN evaluation's design illustrates how the use of multiple data sources can elucidate a deeper understanding of campaign impact. Findings underscore that culturally responsive health communication interventions-like HRN-can provide needed mental health support and resources to disproportionately affected communities. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Protocol for the development and piloting of a cluster randomised controlled trial for stress prevention, management, and coping mechanism among police officers in Nigeria.

Policing is a stressful occupation. Police officers are exposed to stressors that are inherent in the organization and operations of law enforcement. Similar to their counterparts around the world, many Nigeria police officers are exposed to high levels of stress, making them vulnerable to stress-related mental health conditions and other noncommunicable diseases. Despite these risks and their consequences to the health and safety of police officers and the larger society, interventions are currently not available to address this challenge in Nigeria. This pilot study aims to assess the burden of stress from a national sample of police officers and test the feasibility of an intervention for stress prevention, management, and coping mechanisms among police officers in Nigeria. This is a three-phase study: (1) a needs assessment and situational analysis using a convergent parallel, mixed-methods approach to determine the prevalence of stress and mental health burden among 1200 police officers in four randomly selected states in four geopolitical zones of the country, (2) the development of a peer-led intervention for stress prevention, management, and coping mechanism which will be tested using a cluster randomized trial among 200 police officers, and (3) the preliminary evaluation of the intervention based on knowledge about stress management and mental disorders and psychological distress and reduction in stress levels. These measures will be obtained at baseline (T0), immediate (T1), and 6-month post-intervention (T2). Feasibility will be determined based on enrollment rate, attendance, and completion of the group sessions. Multivariable linear regression models taking into account clustering effects will be used to estimate between-group differences in outcome measures. Findings from the study will inform policy review and the development of a pragmatic intervention on stress prevention and management among police officers. This will enhance the policing role of officers, thus contributing to the safety of the communities they serve. PACTR Registry: PACTR202310474721238. Registered on 6 October, 2023. https://pactr.samrc.ac.za/TrialDisplay.aspx?TrialID=25663 . Protocol version number 1.0 (date: 6 October, 2023).

Relationship Between Emotional Intelligence, Educational Achievement and Academic Stress in College Students: An Observational Study

Background and Objectives: In today’s rapidly changing and interconnected world, where individuals often face high levels of stress, uncertainty, and interpersonal dynamics, Alpas’s framework suggests that emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in helping people thrive. By developing emotional intelligence skills, such as self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and social skills, individuals can better manage stress, communicate effectively, build strong relationships, and make sound decisions even in challenging circumstances. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among college students. Participants who were willing to take part in the study were included, considering both males and females. A total sample of 134 students was taken from the NIMS College of Physiotherapy. Emotional intelligence was assessed using the WONG scale, while educational achievement was measured by the total percentage obtained in the last semester. Academic stress was evaluated using the Student Inventory Scale. A Google Form was created, and only those willing to participate in the study filled out the form. Results: There was a negative correlation between emotional intelligence and academic stress (r=1.000), academic stress and percentage (r=-0.62), and percentage and emotional intelligence (r=-0.67). Conclusion: The present study concludes that emotional intelligence, academic stress, and educational achievements are negatively correlated with each other. It has been observed that students experiencing stress tend to exhibit lower emotional intelligence, which ultimately leads to poorer academic performance.

Developing Culturally Sensitive Suicide Prevention Programs for Medical Professionals in Indonesia

Introduction: Medical professionals in Indonesia experience high levels of stress, increasing their risk for mental health problems and suicidal behavior. Culturally appropriate suicide prevention programs are critical to address this issue. This study aimed to develop and evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a culturally adapted suicide prevention program for Indonesian medical professionals. Methods: This mixed-methods study had two phases. Phase 1 involved program development, adapting an existing evidence-based suicide prevention program using a Delphi method with Indonesian mental health experts (n=10) and cultural consultants (n=5). Phase 2 comprised a pilot implementation of the program with 30 medical professionals. Quantitative data on program feasibility (attendance, completion rates) and acceptability (satisfaction surveys, qualitative feedback) were collected and analyzed. Results: The Delphi method resulted in a culturally adapted program incorporating Indonesian values related to collectivism, family support, religious beliefs, and stigma associated with mental health. Pilot implementation showed high attendance (87%) and program completion rates (93%). Participants expressed high satisfaction with the program's content, cultural relevance, and delivery format. Qualitative feedback emphasized the importance of peer support, spiritual integration, and addressing workplace stressors. Conclusion: This study provides preliminary evidence for the feasibility and acceptability of a culturally sensitive suicide prevention program for Indonesian medical professionals. Further research is needed to evaluate the program's effectiveness in reducing suicidal ideation and behavior.

Protecting Emergency Responders with Evidence-Based Interventions (PEREI): protocol for a randomized controlled trial for early career emergency responders, significant others, and supervisors

ABSTRACT Background: Emergency service personnel perform roles associated with high levels of trauma exposure and stress, and not surprisingly experience greater risk for poor mental health including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and substance use relative to the general population. Although programs exist to minimise the risk of developing mental health problems, their efficacy to date has been limited or untested. We will test the efficacy of the three programs which form PEREI: Protecting Emergency Responders with Evidence-Based Interventions. PEREI consists of modified versions of internet-delivered cognitive training in resilience (iCT-R) for early career first responders, PEREI-S for supervisors, and Be Well for Significant Others (BW-SO). Method: Up to 450 members in their first 5 years of service across multiple agencies will be recruited, with their adult supports (significant others, friends) invited to participate. Up to 180 supervisors in the agencies will be recruited. Participants will be randomized to their respective program or to receive the standard practice for mental health offered by the service (or usual mental health support for significant others). Assessments will be conducted pre- and post-program, and at 6- and 12-month follow-up. Primary outcome is PTSD and depression severity and probable-diagnosis. Secondary measures will index hypothesized mediators and moderators of outcome and determine whether the programs are cost-effective. Conclusions: The results will provide evidence as to efficacious methods for reducing risk of mental health problems in high-risk occupations, a better understanding of how such interventions may work, and whether they are good value for money. Trial registration: www.anzctr.org.au (ACTRN12622001267741)

Small heterodimer partner-interacting leucine zipper protein suppresses pain and cartilage destruction in an osteoarthritis model by modulating the AMPK/STAT3 signaling pathway.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease caused by the breakdown of joint cartilage and adjacent bone. Joint injury, being overweight, differences in leg length, high levels of joint stress, abnormal joint or limb development, and inherited factors have been implicated in the etiology of OA. In addition to physical damage to the joint, a role for inflammatory processes has been identified as well. Small heterodimer partner-interacting leucine zipper protein (SMILE) regulates transcription and many cellular functions. Among the proteins activated by SMILE is the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) γ, which mediates the activities of CD4 + T helper cells, including Th1, Th2, and Th17, as well as Treg cells. PPAR-γ binds to STAT3 to inhibit its transcription, thereby suppressing the expression of the NF-κB pathway, and in turn, the expression of the inflammatory cytokines interferon (IFN), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, which are sub-signals of STAT3 and NF-κB. OA was induced in control C57BL/6 mice and in C57BL/6-derived SMILE-overexpressing transgenic (SMILE Tg) mice. The protein expression levels in the joint and spleen tissues were analyzed by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence images. In addition, flow cytometry was performed for detecting changes of the changes of immune cells. Less cartilage damage and significantly reduced levels of OA biomarkers (MMP13, TIMP3 and MCP-1) were observed in SMILE Tg mice. Immunohistochemistry performed to identify the signaling pathway involved in the link between SMILE expression and OA revealed decreased levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and phosphorylated AMPK in synovial tissues as well as a significant decrease in phosphorylated STAT3 in both cartilage and synovium. Changes in systemic immune cells were investigated via flow cytometry to analyze splenocytes isolated from control and SMILE Tg mice. SMILE Tg mice had elevated proportions of CD4 + IL-4 + cells (Th2) and CD4 + CD25 + Foxp3 + cells (Treg) and a notable decrease in CD4 + IL-17 + cells (Th17). Our results show that overexpressed SMILE attenuates the symptoms of OA, by increasing AMPK signaling and decreasing STAT3, thus reducing the levels of inflammatory immune cells.

Influence of Psychological Stress on the Response to Periodontal Treatment: Protocol for a Systematic Review.

The interaction between stress and periodontal treatment is a topic of growing interest. It stands out as a field of research that sheds light on the complexity of oral health in individuals subjected to high levels of emotional stress. This paper aims to provide a protocol for a systematic review to examine the scientific evidence related to the influence of psychological stress on the response to periodontal treatment. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines will be followed, and the study is based on a formulation of PECO (Participants, Exposure, Comparators, and Outcomes) questions. This systematic review will involve a literature search covering studies published from January 2000 to May 2024. It will include searching the PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCOHost, Scopus, and ProQuest databases to identify relevant studies. After selection, data extraction and quality assessment (using the Ottawa-Newcastle Scale) of the included studies will be carried out. The objective is to integrate high-quality evidence on how psychological stress impacts the outcomes of periodontal treatment. Depending on the number and methodological consistency of included studies, the results may be presented by meta-analysis or qualitative synthesis. The current stage of the study consists of selecting studies for the systematic review as outlined by this protocol. The search, screening, and data extraction began in January 2024. The final results are expected by July 2024, with final manuscript submission planned for November 2024. This review will help clarify how psychological factors, such as stress, influence the results of periodontal treatment, providing valuable guidelines for future research and helping clinicians make decisions about the best treatment options for patients. Open Science Framework (OSF) Registries qfs6p; https://osf.io/qfs6p. PRR1-10.2196/56765.

A new biomechanical approach to cranial suture function: the role of contact elements in linear and nonlinear models

Abstract Understanding cranial sutures and how they relieve and dissipate stress is essential to assess their role in cranial biomechanics and to develop highly accurate predictive models. This involves examining how ontogeny affects cranial sutures, as well as their morphology and function, and how these changes through time may impact essential biomechanical loadings such as chewing or direct biting. In this work, we study the cranial sutures of Crocodylus niloticus in detail using contact elements under finite element analysis. Contact elements permit the creation of a physical relationship between two bones that are in contact and even the configuration of these relationships, for example, in terms of movement or flexibility. The definition of bone contacts may require linear and/or nonlinear computational solutions to attain higher accuracy. Herein, skull geometry is tested to determine how bones may be altered by different types of contacts under various conditions. As predicted, the absence of sutures or cranial kinesis leads to a reduction in stress distribution across the skull, whereas sutures and cranial kinesis help the skull relieve stress and prevent certain bones from sustaining high stress levels. The type of contact used in individual sutures has a significant effect on model outcomes. Additionally, feeding behaviors significantly impact cranial biomechanics, reflecting the influence of other variables that may be applied to the models. As highlighted by the results, in order to obtain accurate results when analyzing fossil taxa, the nature of the cranial sutures should be taken into account. Therefore, developing predictive models based on living taxa is invaluable, because it facilitates the study of extinct taxa for which there is a lack of information on the fibrous joints due to poor or no preservation in the fossil record.

The Correlation Between Effort–Reward Imbalance at Work and the Risk of Burnout Among Nursing Staff Working in an Emergency Department—A Pilot Study

Background: Nurses in emergency rooms face high levels of psychological stress during their work, which is why they have an increased risk of burnout. The aim of this pilot study was to determine the extent to which effort–reward imbalance (ERI) at work is connected to the risk of burnout among emergency nurses. Methodology: Thirty-five nurses from the central emergency department of a maximum care provider, aged 35.1 ± 0.6 years, voluntarily participated in this pilot study. ERI was recorded using the Effort–Reward Imbalance questionnaire. The nurses were then divided into two groups: the nonrisk group (ERI ratio < 1, n = 19) and the risk group (ERI ratio ≥ 1, n = 16). The burnout dimensions were determined via the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) and the burnout risk was then determined. Results: Nurses in the nonrisk group were significantly less emotionally exhausted (1.6 ± 1.1 points) and had a lower overall risk of burnout (MBI total score 1.2 ± 0.67 points) than the nurses of the risk group. (3.3 ± 1.5 and 2.2 ± 1.2 points, respectively). Eighteen nurses from the total sample had a medium or high risk of burnout. There is a correlation between the risk of burnout and the ERI ratio (r = 0.392, p < 0.05) and the ERI scale “job promotion” (r = −0.462, p < 0.05). Conclusions: The pilot study provides indications of a relationship between effort–reward imbalance at work and burnout risk in emergency nurses. These findings may improve rewards for nurses in the form of increased salary and/or recognition to reduce the risk of burnout among employees and avoid turnover. Further research is needed to investigate the influence of preventive measures on the risk of burnout and gratification crises, particularly with regard to the influence of status and recognition on the risk of burnout.

Implementing Resourcefulness Training© with Parent Caregivers of Children Dependent on Medical Technology During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Lessons Learned from a Randomized Controlled Trial.

Parent caregivers of children requiring life-saving medical technology (e.g., mechanical ventilation) report higher levels of stress and poorer health than other caregivers, often neglecting health-promoting behaviors for themselves. This article describes an iterative implementation science strategy used to improve intervention delivery for a randomized controlled trial testing a telehealth, cognitive-behavioral resourcefulness intervention with this population during the COVID-19 pandemic. This process consisted of reflective team meetings and content analysis. Initial adjustments were made after content analysis of pilot study materials before intervention delivery including an intervention script, checklist, online daily log, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)-compliant texting option, training material access, and fidelity checks. In vivo adjustments were implemented in four areas: recruitment/engagement, participation and use of resources, in-person delivery, and virtual delivery. Our efforts to streamline intervention delivery were enhanced by incorporating an iterative implementation science strategy including analysis and adjustment of intervention delivery procedures to decrease participant burden and promote intervention adherence. Reflective team meetings and a collaborative, problem-solving approach to resolve the various barriers and challenges with the randomized controlled trial were integral components of intervention delivery. This study informs future intervention research by providing details of barriers faced, pragmatic adjustments made to intervention implementation, and lessons learned (NCT0410524; www.clinicaltrials.gov).

Quasi-Experimental Study: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Jacobson Relaxation Techniques on Pain Among Post-COVID Geriatrics with Co-morbid Illness

Introduction: Jacobson's progressive muscle has been widely recognized for its potential benefits in pain management, particularly in populations experiencing high levels of stress and anxiety, which are common in post-COVID patients. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Jacobson Relaxation Techniques on pain among post-COVID geriatrics who had co-morbid illness. Methods: Quantitative study was selected for the study. A total of 82 participants were selected using purposive methods allocated to either the intervention group (n=41) or the control group (n=41). Pain levels were assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) at baseline and after a week of intervention. Descriptive statistics and inferential analysis were employed to analyze the data. Results: The study finding revealed that the intervention group had a pre-intervention pain score of 7.2 ± 1.5, which reduced to 4.5 ± 1.2 post-intervention, indicating a noticeable reduction in pain levels following the intervention. In contrast, the control group had a pre-intervention pain score of 7.0 ± 1.4, which showed a minimal reduction to 6.8 ± 1.3 post-intervention, suggesting that the control condition had little to no impact on pain levels. The intervention group demonstrated a significant reduction in pain scores compared to the control group post-intervention (p < 0.05), indicating the efficacy of Jacobson Relaxation Techniques in pain management among post-COVID geriatrics with co-morbid illness. Conclusions: Jacobson Relaxation Techniques offer a valuable non-pharmacological approach for alleviating pain in post-COVID geriatrics with co-morbid illness. Further study recommended on the integration of these techniques into clinical practice can improve the quality of life for this vulnerable population, addressing a critical aspect of post-COVID care.

Stress and Self-Efficacy in Parents/Caregivers and Oral Health of Individuals with Down Syndrome During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study

The family of individuals living with Down Syndrome (DS) often demonstrate high levels of stress associated with the demand for care and difficulties experienced in everyday life. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to assess perceived stress by parents/caregivers of individuals with DS and its association with general perceived self-efficacy and dental outcomes, considering the COVID-19 pandemic’s impacts on family’s daily activities and finances. A sample of 257 parents/caregivers answered a questionnaire with socioeconomic, dental, and behavioral variables and the short version of the Perceived Stress Scale and the General Perceived Self-Efficacy Scale. The sample was divided into three groups based on perceived stress levels. Associated variables were evaluated using multinomial logistic regression (level of significance 5%), adjusting for socioeconomic factors. The mean perceived stress score was 17.84 ± 5.75 (0–39). Medium stress (second tertile) was associated with finger/nail biting in individuals with DS (OR = 2.05; 95%CI 1.04–4.03; p = 0.038), difficulty in performing oral hygiene (OR = 2.39; 95%CI 1.23–4.65; p = 0.011) and medium and high self-efficacy (OR = 0.12; 95%CI 0.05–0.31; p < 0.001 and OR = 0.38; 95%CI 0.15–0.98; p = 0.046, respectively); high stress (third tertile) was associated with medium and high self-efficacy (OR = 0.25; 95%CI 0.09–0.67; p = 0.006 and OR = 0.05; 95%CI 0.02–0.15; p < 0.001, respectively) and negative impact of COVID-19 in family finances (OR = 3.00; 95%CI 1.39–6.44; p = 0.005). It was concluded that parents/caregivers’ perceived stress was averaged and associated with self-efficacy, finger/nail biting, oral hygiene demands, and the financial impact of COVID-19.

CORRELATION OF OXIDATIVE STRESS MARKERS IN MULTIPLE BIOFLUIDS OF END-STAGE RENAL DISEASE PATIENTS

A study established that patients with ESRD have high oxidative stress levels that spike the progression of the disease and its complications. Knowledge about the levels of the Oxidative stress biomarkers in various biofluids including Urine, serum, and saliva can explain the oxidative condition and probable diagnostic accuracy of these markers in ESRD patients. A descriptive cross-sectional exploratory research design was used to perform a comparison of 50 ESRD patients with 50 healthy subjects. On demographic, clinical, and hematological parameters data were obtained. Blood MDA, 8-OHdG, and saliva TAC were determined as the indicators of oxidative stress. Multivariate analysis was conducted to compare the levels of these markers in the biofluids and probable neurological disorders, and the participants’ demographic and clinical data were evaluated. Demographic profiling revealed that ESRD patients’ mean BMI was 26.3 ± 3.9 kg/m², compared to controls 24.8 ± 3.4 km/m², p = 0.032; more of them being smokers’ p = 0.045. ESRD patient’s general hematologic profile showed that their mean hemoglobin level was 10.2 ± 1.5 g/dL and the mean hematocrit was 32.5 ± 4.3 % and the difference was significant when compared with the control group (p<0.05). ESRD was associated with an increase in WMBC, percentage of neutrophils, and CRP level compared with the control group (p<0.05). Acute phase marker study indicates that the MDA level was significantly higher in serum (5.6 ± 1.1 nmol/L) than in urine (3.2 ± 0.8 nmol/L) and saliva (2.8 ± 0.7 nmol/L, p=0.016). The levels of 8-OHdG were significantly higher in serum (10.3 ± 2.1 ng/mL) than in urine and saliva (p=0.027). Salivary TAC was the least suggesting reduced antioxidant defense (p<0.05). The study revealed that ESRD patients have increased levels in the markers of oxidative stress in urine and serum samples, as well as saliva compared to healthy individuals. The studies have identified serum as the most representative biofluid for evaluating oxidative stress in ESRD and therefore assured the practical application of the results for the identification of the best candidates for early interventions.

Prevalence and Impact of Stress in the Indian Population: A Retrospective Survey Analysis

Post-COVID-19 pandemic, individuals are experiencing various forms of stress. This study assessed the prevalence of stress among Indian adults, examined its physical and psychological impacts, and investigated stress management strategies, aiming to fill existing gaps in research. This retrospective observational study utilized an online survey from March 16, 2023, to July 30, 2023, using snowball sampling to target the Indian population. Respondents aged ≥18 years participated in the study. The survey collected data on demographic information, self-reported stress levels, and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) scores. The chi-square test was applied for statistical analysis, and results with a p-value under 0.05 were considered significant. Among 1,479 respondents (638 males, 841 females; mean age: 23.7±7.7 years), 76.0% of respondents resided in Karnataka. Out of 1,479 respondents, 9.6% experienced mild stress, 84.9% experienced moderate stress, and 5.5% experienced severe stress according to the PSS. Females experienced significantly higher stress levels when compared with males (p=0.047), but both experienced moderate stress levels. Financial problems (20.7%) and studies (36.4%) were the most common stressors among respondents. They most frequently manage stress through personal strategies, such as sleeping and listening to music. The present study's findings indicate that, following the COVID-19 health crisis, moderate levels of stress are significantly prevalent in the Indian population, primarily due to academic and job-related pressures.

Analysis of associations of personality traits and stress with the level of serum cortisol in Sakha (Yakut) men

The purpose of this study is to test the hypothesis that personality traits and stressful situations experienced in childhood could be associated with the level of serum cortisol. The sample included 121 healthy adult men of Yakut (Sakha) ethnicity aged 18 to 27 years. To assess personality traits, the TCI temperament and character questionnaire by R. Cloninger was used. Serum cortisol levels were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). It was found that such a temperament trait as “reward dependence” is associated with higher level of cortisol in the blood (p = 0.04). Experienced stressful situations are associated with the character trait “self-transcendence” (p = 0.049) but do not significantly affect cortisol levels. In individuals with high levels of stress, significant correlations were found between the “novelty seeking” (r = 0.33) and “self-directedness” (r = 0.36) with serum cortisol levels, which may reflect the prolonged effect of stress on increasing the sensitivity of the adrenal cortex. The results indicate a possible connection between one of the human temperament traits “reward dependence” and higher levels of cortisol in the blood. A high level of experienced stress situations reduces scores on the character trait “self-transcendence.”

Mental health and lifestyle-related behaviors in medical students in a Jordanian University, and variations by clerkship status

BackgroundThe rigors of medical education often take a toll on students' mental well-being, resulting in heightened stress, anxiety, depression, somatization, and thoughts of self-harm. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of mental health problems among Jordanian medical students (Yarmouk University), explore the links between mental state and demographic and lifestyle factors, and compare mental health profiles between pre-clinical/pre-clerkship (years 1–3) and clinical/clerkship (years 4–6) students.MethodsAn online survey was distributed to undergraduate medical students at Yarmouk University. Mental health was measured using validated tools (depression: Patient Health Questionnaire, PHQ-9; eating disorders: SCOFF; Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale, GAD-7; Somatic Symptoms: Patient Health Questionnaire, PHQ-15; overall stress (single-item measure); ability to handle stress; stressors and coping mechanisms. Data on sociodemographic factors, academic performance, and lifestyle choices, also were collected. Bivariate and multivariable analyses evaluated the associations between academic level and mental health, accounting for sociodemographic and lifestyle factors.ResultsOf the 618 medical students who responded, 48.4% screened positive for depression, 36.7% for anxiety, and 63.6% for high level of stress. Slightly over half experienced somatic symptoms, and 28.6% exhibited signs of eating disorders. Roughly, 26% had suicidal thoughts, as measured by item 9 of the PHQ-9 scale. Low reported rates of healthy behaviors were observed (e.g. balanced diets, 5.7%; vigorous physical activity, 17.0%). Smoking prevalence was 24.6%, notably higher among clinical students. At the multivariable level, stress, insomnia, eating disorders and cigarette smoking were significantly associated with depression, anxiety and somatization. Higher physical activity scores were associated with lower depression risk. Females were significantly more likely than males to fall in more severe somatization categories.ConclusionThis study highlights the need to address the alarming rates of mental health problems among Jordanian medical students. While few significant differences were observed between pre-clinical and clinical students, the high rates of depression, anxiety, stress, and negative health practices in both groups suggest the need for interventions that begin at enrollment as well as during transitions to clinical settings. Prioritizing mental health support and promoting healthier lifestyles among medical students are vital steps toward nurturing resilient, well-rounded future medical professionals.