Physiological Stress Parameters Research Articles

Classification of emotional stress and physical stress using facial imaging features

A novel algorithm based on Eulerian magnification and empirical mode decomposition (EM-EMD) is proposed to classify emotional stress and physical stress. Different from previous stress recognition algorithms, EM-EMD does not model the relationship between physiological stress parameters and thermal imprints, but establishes the classification model using different thermal signal features under different types and statuses of stress. It first amplifies blood vessel signals in the human forehead. Later, the proposed algorithm performs frequency division processing on the emotional stress signal and the physical stress signal according to time scale characteristics of the data. Finally, it establishes a classification model of emotional and physical stress using the Gaussian mixture model classifier. Experimental results demonstrated that the EM-EMD algorithm could achieve 85% classification accuracy and could provide a practical method model for future industrial applications. It also shows that the classification rate of the proposed algorithm is better than the conventional classification method. As far as we know, the proposed EM-EMD algorithm is a successful classification model of emotional and physical stress through non-contact imaging.

Editorial: Neural Mechanisms Underlying Movement-Based Embodied Contemplative Practices.

Compared to the extensive body of neuroscientific work on seated meditation practices, far fewer studies have investigated the neural mechanisms underlying movement-based contemplative practices such as yoga or tai chi. One likely reason is the inherent challenge of dealing with their multifaceted nature, typically involving specific movement sequences, regulation of the breath, and modulation of attention. Movement-based practices have, however, been found to be effective for relieving the symptoms of clinical conditions as diverse as cancer, Parkinson's disease (PD), chronic pain, fibromyalgia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, and anxiety-related disorders. In addition, they have been shown to elicit measurable changes in physiological stress parameters, cognitive, and physical functioning as well experienced emotional states in healthy individuals. An important challenge for contemplative science is therefore to advance our understanding of the neurophysiological and neurocognitive mechanisms underlying these observed effects. The current Research Topic aims to make a contribution in this regard by outlining the state of the art of research on movement-based practices including yoga, tai chi, the Feldenkrais Method, as well as dance. The featured articles present empirical data, propose novel theoretical frameworks, and address the clinical implications of research within the field.

Behavioral and physiological responses of forest musk deer (Moschus berezovskii) to experimental fawn manipulation

High stress response is an important factor impeding the breeding of wild animals in captivity. Experimental fawn manipulation is considered a suitable approach to reduce the negative effects of behavioral and physiological stress. The forest musk deer (Moschus berezovskii) is classified as “endangered” by the IUCN Red List due to over-exploitation for musk production. Musk is highly valued for its cosmetic and alleged pharmaceutical properties and has stimulated the enthusiasm of captive musk deer breeding in recent years. This study attempts to reduce behavioral and physiological stress responses in juvenile musk deer using experimental fawn manipulation. Habituation started 5 days after birth and lasted until weaning age (90 days). We determined the behavioral stress response at the age of 30, 60, 90, 150, and 360 days by measuring acceptance or rejection of three treatment intensities (i.e., stroking, embracement) and quantified behavioral responses (urination, approaching the investigator). At the same time, physiological stress parameters were established, measuring the fecal glucocorticosteroid metabolite (FGM) concentration. Our results indicate that fawn manipulation initially reduced the behavioral stress, but after termination of treatments, stress symptoms reoccurred. We detected no difference in the FGM concentrations between treatment and control groups, suggesting that the experimental fawn manipulation did not decrease the physiological stress response. This implies that behavioral stress reduction cannot be sustained if the physiological stress remains unaltered. We argue that the socio-positive reactions of musk deer fawns to humans could be phenotypic and that the physiological stress response rather reflects their intrinsic characteristics than a successful manipulation.

Sympathoadrenal balance and physiological stress response in cattle at spontaneous and PGF2α-induced calving

Increased cortisol release in parturient cows may either represent a stress response or is part of the endocrine changes that initiate calving. Acute stress elicits an increase in heart rate and decrease in heart rate variability (HRV). Therefore, we analyzed cortisol concentration, heart rate and HRV variables standard deviation of beat-to-beat interval (SDRR) and root mean square of successive beat-to-beat intervals (RMSSD) in dairy cows allowed to calve spontaneously (SPON, n = 6) or with PGF2α-induced preterm parturition (PG, n = 6). We hypothesized that calving is a stressor, but induced parturition is less stressful than term calving. Saliva collection for cortisol analysis and electrocardiogram recordings for heart rate and HRV analysis were performed from 32 hours before to 18.3 ± 0.7 hours after delivery. Cortisol concentration increased in SPON and PG cows, peaked 15 minutes after delivery (P < 0.001) but was higher in SPON versus PG cows (P < 0.001) during and within 2 hours after calving. Heart rate peaked during the expulsive phase of labor and was higher in SPON than in PG cows (time × group P < 0.01). The standard deviation of beat-to-beat interval and RMSSD peaked at the end of the expulsive phase of labor (P < 0.001), indicating high vagal activity. Standard deviation of beat-to-beat interval (P < 0.01) and RMSSD (P < 0.05) were higher in SPON versus PG cows. Based on physiological stress parameters, calving is perceived as stressful but expulsion of the calf is associated with a transiently increased vagal tone which may enhance uterine contractility.

Evaluation of the side effects of poly(epsilon-caprolactone) nanocapsules containing atrazine toward maize plants.

Poly(epsilon-caprolactone) (PCL) nanocapsules have been used as a carrier system for the herbicide atrazine, which is commonly applied to maize. We demonstrated previously that these atrazine containing polymeric nanocapsules were 10-fold more effective in the control of mustard plants (a target species), as compared to a commercial atrazine formulation. Since atrazine can have adverse effects on non-target crops, here we analyzed the effect of encapsulated atrazine on growth, physiological and oxidative stress parameters of soil-grown maize plants (Zea mays L.). One day after the post-emergence treatment with PCL nanocapsules containing atrazine (1 mg mL−1), maize plants presented 15 and 21% decreases in maximum quantum yield of photosystem II (PSII) and in net CO2 assimilation rate, respectively, as compared to water-sprayed plants. The same treatment led to a 1.8-fold increase in leaf lipid peroxidation in comparison with control plants. However, all of these parameters were unaffected 4 and 8 days after the application of encapsulated atrazine. These results suggested that the negative effects of atrazine were transient, probably due to the ability of maize plants to detoxify the herbicide. When encapsulated atrazine was applied at a 10-fold lower concentration (0.1 mg mL−1), a dosage that is still effective for weed control, no effects were detected even shortly after application. Regardless of the herbicide concentration, neither pre- nor post-emergence treatment with the PCL nanocapsules carrying atrazine resulted in the development of any macroscopic symptoms in maize leaves, and there were no impacts on shoot growth. Additionally, no effects were observed when plants were sprayed with PCL nanocapsules without atrazine. Overall, these results suggested that the use of PCL nanocapsules containing atrazine did not lead to persistent side effects in maize plants, and that the technique could offer a safe tool for weed control without affecting crop growth.

No stress after 24-hour on-call shifts?

Irregular sleep patterns can adversely affect physiological functions and have been associated with increased physiological and psychological stress. Nocturnal work of physicians during 24-hour on-call shifts (OCS) disrupts the sleep/wake cycle. Chronic exposure to distress has been shown to affect cardiovascular homeostasis and to impair performance in neurocognitive and simulated clinical tasks. In a prospective cohort study, biochemical and physiological stress parameters were assessed in 11 female and 9 male physicians (median age: 32 years, range 26-42 years) before a normal working day and after a 24-hour OCS in internal medicine. In addition, various tests of attentional performance (TAP) were conducted. The levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) were significantly higher after a 24- hour OCS, while there were no significant changes in cortisol, epinephrine, and norepinephrine levels. Heart rate variability and skin resistance increased following an OCS, although the differences were not statistically significant. Intrinsic alertness was comparable, while phasic alertness was significantly improved following a 24-hour OCS. Focused attention tended to be better following a night shift. There was no correlation with age or medical working experience; however, men experienced more stress than women. Following a 24-hour OCS, (i) TSH may be an early and sensitive biochemical predictor of stress; (ii) other classical biochemical stress parameters do not depict the psychological stress perceived by physicians; (iii) there may be a mismatch between experienced and objective stress levels; (iv) neurocognitive functions are not impaired, while performance may even be improved; and (v) men might be more sensitive to distress.

Stress Response of Veterinary Students to Gynaecological Examination of Horse Mares - Effects of Simulator-Based and Animal-Based Training.

Invasive procedures in animals are challenging for veterinary students who may perceive a gynaecological examination of mares as stressful. Simulator-based training may reduce stress. In this study, students received equine gynaecology training 4 times either on horses (group H; n=14) or a teaching simulator (group SIM; n=13). One day and 14days thereafter, their diagnostic skills were tested on horses (skills tests 1 and 2). During the skills tests, the students' stress response was analysed by heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV) parameters SDRR (standard deviation of beat-to-beat [RR] interval) and RMSSD (root-mean-square of successive RR differences), and salivary cortisol. In addition, students answered a questionnaire on their perceived stress. Sympathetic activation with increased heart rate (p<0.001) occurred in both skills tests. In test 1, this increase was more pronounced in SIM than in H students (time×group p<0.01). HRV decreased in students of both groups (p<0.001). In skills test 1, this decrease was more pronounced for SIM than for H students (between groups and time×group p<0.01 for SDRR and p<0.05 for RMSSD). High cortisol concentrations before the skills tests may indicate an anticipatory stress response. Subjective stress perception of students was higher in skills test 1 vs 2 (p<0.01). In skills test 2, H students felt more stressed than SIM students (p<0.01). Self-assessment thus differed from physiological stress parameters. In conclusion, gynaecological examination of mares evoked a moderate stress response in veterinary students, which was more evident after simulator-based than animal-based training.

Differential Effects of Cold Stress on the Antioxidant Response of Mycorrhizal and Non-Mycorrhizal Jatropha curcas (L.) Plants

Our main objective was to analyze the protection provided by Mycorrhiza (Rhizophagus intraradices) to Jatropha curcas plants under cold stress, through the analysis of physiological and oxidative stress parameters. Mycorrhizal (AM) and non-mycorrhizal (nonAM) plants were exposed to cold stress 4±1 oC temperature for 72 h. The control plant grow at 25 ±1 oC. Under cold stress, the stomata conductance decreased both AM and nonAM plants and photosynthetic efficiency only in non AM plants. The CAT activity increased in AM plants independently of stress conditions. GR activity shows a typical rise to cold stress in nonAM plants and decreased in AM ones. With cold stress, the APX activity was reduced in all treatments and SOD activity was not affected in all treatment The MDA content increased in nonAM plants while in AM plants it was unaffected by low temperature. This study reported on the regulation of antioxidant compounds, their relationship to the AM symbiosis and cold stress in Jatropha curcas L.

Evaluation of physiological and biochemical responses in different seasons in Surti buffaloes.

Aim:This study was conducted to evaluate the impact of hot dry, hot humid and comfortable season on physiological, hematological, biochemical, and oxidative stress parameters in Surti buffaloes.Materials and Methods:Ten lactating Surti buffaloes of similar physiological status were selected. Based on the temperature-humidity index (THI), their natural exposure to the environment was categorized as hot dry (THI1), hot humid (THI2) and moderate winter/comfort season (THI3). Blood/serum samples were collected and analyzed for physiological, hematological, biochemical, and oxidative stress parameters. The results were analyzed using standard statistical methods.Results:With increase in THI, significant rise in physiological parameters such as respiration rate (RR), hematological parameters such as red blood cell (RBC), hematocrit, hemoglobin (Hb) and mean cell Hb concentration (MCHC), biochemical parameters such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Na, K, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, Mn, Cu and Zn, hormones such as cortisol and oxidative stress parameters such as glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), lipid peroxide (LPO) and total antioxidant status (TAS) and significant decline in glucose, cholesterol and triiodothyronine (T3) was observed.Conclusion:It was concluded that THI is a sensitive indicator of heat stress and is impacted by ambient temperature more than the relative humidity in buffaloes. Higher THI is associated with significantly increased RR, total RBC count, Hb, hematocrit, MCHC, ALT, urea, sodium, creatinine, triiodothyronine, SOD, GPx, LPO and TAS and with significant decrease in glucose, cholesterol and triiodothyronine (T3).

Heart Rate Variability as an Indicator of Mental Stress in Surgeons - A Review of the Literature

The risk assessment of mental stress and early detection of mental illness among surgeons are much debated issues, because the perceived working conditions are important for their own health and that of the patients. Studies of predominantly mental stress are increasing and stay up-to-date. The psychological strain of surgeons is generally regarded as high. In order to objectively determine stress, the heart rate and its variability have been established as parameters. Based on the physiological stress parameter, it is possible to determine the previous level of strain. This work presents a summary of recent scientific studies to explore the stress in operative surgeons on the basis of the physiological stress parameters heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV). A PubMed search until spring of 2014 was performed. A total of 10 studies were included which deal with the mental stress and strain analysis by surgeons. In this case, 4 studies used only the HR and the further 6 studies used the HRV as a stress parameter. First stress and strain analyses of surgeons have been around since the early 1980s. The studies were usually carried out solely within the sample examined. Control groups have rarely or not been studied. In summary, stressed surgeons offered a higher intraoperative heart rate and a low expression of the HRV. The same was experienced in operating surgeons compared to the assistant surgeons or with inexperienced operating surgeons compared to experienced surgeons.

Physiological responses to increased brood size and ectoparasite infestation: Adult great tits favour self-maintenance

Different types of stressors trigger responses of different physiological systems, and these responses may contribute differentially to the maintenance of homeostasis, to trade-offs and the evolution of life-history traits. To manipulate two common stressors during reproduction, we infested half of the nests in a naturally breeding great tit population with ectoparasites and simultaneously manipulated brood size, using a 2×2 experimental design. Parents in this model species commonly compensate for ectoparasites by an increase in food provisioning. We assessed parental responses to these concurrent stressors by measuring several physiological stress parameters such as changes in metabolic rate, oxidative stress and expression of heat-shock proteins (Hsp), and explored how these stressors affect the trade-off between self-maintenance and reproduction. Neither flea infestation nor brood size manipulation affected adult metabolic rate, oxidative damage or Hsp levels. Furthermore, we found no interactive effect of the two treatments on adults. However, nestlings in infested nests had lower body mass and lower survival. Nestlings in enlarged broods were lighter and had lower survival, although parents of enlarged broods increased food provisioning rate. The findings suggest that adults favour maintenance of cellular homeostasis, and physiological equilibrium over current reproduction, and that the costs induced by both stressors, flea infestation and increased brood size, are carried by the offspring. It emphasizes the importance of self-maintenance over reproduction in life-history decisions, and more generally the need of including physiological traits for understanding the evolution of life-histories.

Physiological and Biochemical Responses of Fibigia Triquetra (DC.) Boiss. to Osmotic Stress

Abstract Water deficit in the soil leads to osmotic stress in plants. The type of stress affects plant water relations, osmolyte accumulation and oxidative stress balance. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of osmotic stress on the Croatian perennial species Fibigia triquetra (DC.) Boiss, adapted to a hot and dry habitat. Plants grown in culture conditions were subjected to isoosmotic concentrations of mannitol and polyethylene glycol (PEG) and certain physiological and oxidative stress parameters were analyzed during a period of 14 days. Dry weight and proline content in Fibigia triquetra shoots increased in response to osmotic stress while the relative water content decreased. After an initial rise, chlorophyll and carotenoid levels in treated plants dropped to untreated plant levels. Oxidative damage to proteins and especially to lipids was evident upon PEG-induced osmotic stress. Superoxide dismutase and ascorbate peroxidase appear to play an essential protective role in stressed plants. Regardless of the osmotic agent, accumulation of heat-shock proteins of 70 kDa was noticed under osmotic stress. The tolerance of the plant species to osmotic stress seems to be associated with increased capacity of the antioxidative system and efficient photoprotective system.

The Efficacy of Short-Term Psycho-Oncological Interventions for Women with Gynaecological Cancer: A Randomized Study

Objectives: We aimed to examine the efficacy of two psycho-oncological interventions in anxiety, depression, and self-perceived as well as physiological stress in inpatients with gynaecological cancer. Methods: Forty-five women were included in the trial. Thirty-five were categorized as being at high risk of anxiety and depression, and were randomized to either a single psycho-oncological therapy session or a single-session relaxation intervention. Results: A significant decrease in anxiety [mean (t₀) = 12, mean (t₁) = 7.47, p = 0.001] and depression [mean (t₀) = 9.71, mean (t₁) = 6.35, p < 0.001] was observed in the psycho-oncological intervention group. In the relaxation group, anxiety also significantly decreased [mean (t₀) = 11.67, mean (t₁) = 8.22, p = 0.003], whereas depression did not. A comparative analysis of both interventions showed a trend in favour of psycho-oncological therapy for the treatment of depression (F = 3.3, p = 0.078). However, self-reported stress (p = 0.031) and different objective stress parameters only significantly decreased in the relaxation group. Conclusions: Psycho-oncological interventions should represent an essential part of interdisciplinary care for gynaecological cancer patients. Both types of intervention may reduce anxiety. However, the single psycho-oncological therapy session might be slightly more effective in treating depression, whereas the single-session relaxation intervention seems to have a stronger effect on physiological stress parameters.

Influence of nitrate fertilization on Cd uptake and oxidative stress parameters in alfalfa plants cultivated in presence of Cd

AbstractPlant nutrients might affect the activity and bioavailability of heavy metals in the soil –plant environment thus their accumulation in the plant. Little is known about the effect of nitrogen fertilization on cadmium (Cd) uptake by alfalfa “ Medicago sativa ”. This work aims to characterize the oxidative status, the physiological stress parameters and the Cd uptake in alfalfa « Medicago sativa » exposed to Cd and supplied with nitrogen fertilizers. The experiment was carried out in a green house with alfalfa grown in Cd-polluted soil (3.6 ppm) and amended with two different fertilizers: without NO 3- (PK) or with NO 3 (NPK) in a sand:peat (v:v) mixture. The following parameters were monitored: Chlorophyll content, Photosynthesis rate, Catalase (CAT) activity, Thiobarbutiric Acid Reactive Species (TBARS) content and Cd bioaccumulation. It was found that NPK fertilization increased mean Cd uptake as well as plant biomass in Cd-exposed plants. Nitrogen supply was also effective in reduction Cd-induces phytotoxicity (Photosynthetic pigments and rate) and oxidative stress alterations. Our results suggest that nitrogen supply may improve the uptake rate of Cd by alfalfa and provide new insights on the importance of nitrogen fertilization towards future phytoremediation applications using alfalfa.Keywords: Phytoremediation, alfalfa, cadmium, nitrogen fertilization1. IntroductionCadmium (Cd) is considered to be potent toxic heavy metals, causing adverse effects to humans and all other living organisms (Sarwar

Sympathoadrenal and adrenocortical activity in parturient mares

In the mare, parturition only takes place if the environment is perceived as safe, and neither external nor internal stressors impair rapid delivery of the foal. On one hand parturition is assumed to be a very strenuous process but on the other hand sympathoadrenal activation during labor may inhibit uterine contractions and thus delivery. We hypothesized that normal parturition in horses can only take place in the absence of any major acute stress response. To determine changes in physiological stress parameters during parturitionwe analyzed heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (HRV), catecholamine (adrenaline and noradrenaline) and cortisol release in Warmblood brood mares (n1⁄417) throughout spontaneous foaling. A continuous ECG was recorded from 2 h before to 2 h after birth of the foal. Saliva samples for cortisol analysis were taken during second stage labor and 2 h thereafter. Salivary cortisol represents the free, i.e. biologically active fraction of total cortisol and analysis has been validated for the horse. In a subgroup of mares (n1⁄410) blood for catecholamine determination was taken during second and third stage of labor. During the observation period heart rate decreased significantly from of 51 1 beats/min before to 45 0 beats/min after birth of the foal (P<0.05) and thus was not elevated versus baseline heart rate in pregnant mares. At the same time both heart rate variables determined standard deviation of the RR interval (SDRR) and root mean square of successive RR differences (RMSSD) – increased significantly (P<0.05), indicating decreased

Effects of the level of experience of horses and their riders on Cortisol release, heart rate and heart-rate variability during a jumping course

AbstractEquestrian sports require the co-operation of two species, horses and humans, but it is unknown to what extent stress responses in the rider affect the horse. In this study, the stress response of experienced and less-experienced horses and riders at showjumping was analysed. Sixteen sport horses were divided into two groups (n = 8 each) by experience and were ridden by highly experienced professionals (n = 8) and less-experienced riders (n = 8). Riders jumped a course of obstacles with an experienced and a less-experienced horse and horses took part with an experienced and less-experienced rider. Salivary cortisol, heart rate and heart-rate variability (HRV) variables, standard deviation of RR interval (SDRR) and root mean square of successive RR differences (RMSSD) were analysed. Cortisol and heart rate increased and HRV decreased in all riders and horses. In less-experienced riders, cortisol release was higher on a less-experienced versus an experienced horse but the horses’ cortisol release was not affected by experience of their riders. Heart rate did not differ between groups of horses and was not affected by experience of the rider but was higher in less-experienced versus experienced riders. The HRV decreased in horses and riders and SDRR was lower in less-experienced versus experienced riders. Thus, lower experience of riders appears not to affect physiological stress parameters in their horses during a showjumping course.

Efficient sweat reduction of three different antiperspirant application forms during stress-induced sweating

Stress sweating can occur in everyday situations independently of thermally-induced perspiration. It is triggered by emotionally challenging situations and leads to underarm wetness and a characteristic unpleasant malodor. In this study, we aimed to determine the long-term efficacy of three unperfumed antiperspirant (AP) formulas for different application forms (roll-on, stick, aerosol) against stress-induced sweating and malodor formation. We utilized the widely accepted Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) to induce psychosocial stress in female and male volunteers (18 - 40 years) and determined physiological stress parameters. To additionally assess the efficacy of the test AP roll-on against thermally-induced sweating, a hot room study was performed. Increasing heart rates and an augmentation of saliva cortisol levels during the TSST indicated a substantial stress reaction which was paralleled by a pronounced sweat production in the untreated axillae of both males and females. Forty-eight hours after application, all three test APs significantly decreased the amount of sweat in the treated axillae independent of gender. With respect to AP effects on malodor production, trained sniffers assessed sweat samples collected during the TSST from the untreated axillae as significantly more malodorous than comparable samples from the AP-treated axillae. Also, independent of gender the test AP roll-on significantly decreased the thermally-induced sweat in the AP-treated axilla. We show for the first time a highly effective reduction of emotionally-induced axillary sweating and malodor production for three different application forms 48 h after the last product use. The specially developed roll-on, stick, and aerosol AP provide long-term protection against stress-induced sweat which is of high relevance in everyday life.

Physiological and behavioral stress parameters in calves in response to partial scrotal resection, orchidectomy, and Burdizzo castration

Establishing artificial cryptorchids by partial scrotal resection without removing the testicles is a technique for castration of bull calves that recently has gained new interest. In contrast to orchidectomy and Burdizzo castration, the stress response of calves to shortening of the scrotum is unknown. In this study, partial scrotal resection in bull calves was compared with orchidectomy, Burdizzo castration, and controls without intervention (n=10 per group, ages 56±3d). Procedures were performed under xylazine sedation and local anesthesia. We hypothesized that partial scrotal resection is least stressful. Salivary cortisol, heart rate, heart rate variability, behavior, and locomotion were analyzed. Cortisol concentration peaked 60min after start of the procedures. Cortisol release was at least in part xylazine induced and none of the experimental procedures released additional cortisol. Heart rate increased in calves of all groups with initial handling, but immediately after xylazine sedation decreased to 30% below initial values and was not modified by surgical procedures. The heart rate variability variables standard deviation of beat-to-beat interval and root mean square of successive beat-to-beat differences increased when calves were placed on the surgery table but effects were similar in calves submitted to surgeries and control calves. Locomotion increased, whereas lying time decreased in response to all surgeries. Locomotion increase was most pronounced after orchidectomy. Plasma fibrinogen concentrations increased after orchidectomy only. With adequate pain medication, orchidectomy, Burdizzo castration, and partial scrotal resection do not differ with regard to acute stress and, by inference, pain. Partial scrotal resection when carried out under xylazine sedation and local anesthesia thus is an acceptable castration technique in bull calves.

No Benefit Adding Eleutherococcus senticosus to Stress Management Training in Stress-Related Fatigue/Weakness, Impaired Work or Concentration, A Randomized Controlled Study

Plant adaptogens are traditionally used for stress-related symptoms, but clinical evidence is inconsistent. This trial explored the effects of 120 mg/day Eleutherococcus senticosus root extract (ES), 2-day professional stress management training (SMT) and a combination of both (COM). 144 participants suffering from asthenia and reduced working capacity related to chronic stress were randomized to the treatments. Validated scales and tests were used to investigate cognitive performance; feeling stressed; fatigue and exhaustion; alertness, restlessness and mood; quality of life and sleep; physical complaints and activities; and physiological stress parameters including cortisol awakening response (CAR), at baseline, after 2 and 8 weeks of treatment (German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00000692). Almost all parameters improved significantly over time without group differences. Significant differences were found in mental fatigue and restlessness, both in favor of COM vs. ES. COM was not superior to SMT in any parameter at week 8. An attenuation of the CAR was seen at week 2 without group differences. All treatments were well tolerated. Effects of adding ES to SMT are, if any, negligible.

Stress responses to comparative handling procedures in sheep

The objective of this study was to compare some husbandry procedures on the base of physiological stress parameters and evaluate the welfare status in sheep. Forty ewes were used as the study material. Measurements were taken during several routine husbandry procedures such as milking, shearing, weighing, loading and hoof care. Data regarding time spent for each application, as well as heart and respiratory rates were recorded during the applications. Blood samples were taken 15 min before and after each application and malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione-peroxidase (GSH-Px), cortisol T3 and T4 parameters were measured. In addition, changes in the same parameters between pre- and post-application periods were evaluated. According to the results, machine milking caused less stress than hand milking. No significant difference was seen between shearing methods for hand shearer or clipper; however, both applications caused stress in animals. The results for weighing methods of animals demonstrated significant differences in cortisol, T3 and T4 values in favor of traditional method. Cortisol, T3 and T4 levels were significantly higher in manual loading compared with loading by ramp. Regarding hoof care, all the examined parameters differed in favor of modern method. On the other hand, significant differences were determined between the stress parameters regarding pre- and post-applications. All values differed for hand milking while no significant difference was observed in MDA and T3 values in machine milking group. Parameters in weighing groups changed significantly. For loading process, GSH, cortisol, T3 and T4 values differed in both treatment groups. With regard to hoof care, parameters except T4 in laying group differed significantly. An increase occurred in minute-based measurements of heart and respiratory rates parallel to physiological data. The number of the respiratory rates during the applications differed except for the shearing process. All the parameters displayed significant differences between groups in terms of heart rates. Time spent for each application also differed between groups. Time saved for milking, shearing, weighing, loading and hoof care was 3.23 min, 4.37 min, 1.71 min, 7.85 s and 1.55 min, respectively. These results appear to provide a tangible advantage of using new husbandry methods to the breeders. It was concluded that using new methods in sheep husbandry procedures provided advantages in terms of saving time and reducing labor, as well as improved conditions for welfare of animals. In addition, it facilitated the routine works and flock husbandry.