Psychophysical Health Research Articles

How and When May Technostress Impact Workers' Psycho-Physical Health and Work-Family Interface? A Study during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Italy.

Although a growing body of research has analyzed the determinants and effects of technostress, it is still unclear how and when technostress would impact workers' psycho-physical health and work-family interface during the pandemic. To fill this gap, this study tests the mediating mechanisms and the boundary conditions associated with the impact of technostress on workers' psycho-physical well-being and work-family conflict. A total of 266 Italian workers completed online questionnaires measuring (traditional vs. remote) working modalities, technostress, fear of COVID-19, working excessively, psycho-physical distress, work-family conflict, loss of a loved one due to COVID-19, and resilience. Structural equation models were performed. Results indicated that technostress was positively related to psycho-physical distress and work-family conflict, as mediated by fear of COVID-19 and working excessively, respectively. The loss of a loved one exacerbated the effects of fear of COVID-19 on psycho-physical health, while resilience buffered the effects of working excessively on work-family conflict. Since numerous organizations intend to maintain remote working also after the COVID-19 emergency, it is crucial to study this phenomenon during its peaks of adoption, to prevent its potential negative outcomes. The implications of these findings for theory and practice are discussed.

A Narrative Review of Heart Rate Variability as a Good Index of Psychophysical Health in Athletes and in Biofeedback Training

Stress is a psychophysical condition that causes an impairment in athletes’ performance by causing an increase in sympathetic activity and an autonomic imbalance. The current methods for the measurement of psychophysiological stress introduce the use of the heart rate variability as a useful index of the well-being of these people. The heart rate variability corresponds to the time intervals between consecutive heartbeats, such as an irregularity in the normal sinus heart rhythm whose variability is due to the control exercised by a complex system of mechanisms, including the respiratory control system, and provides information about the activity of the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches of the autonomic nervous system. This review aims at summarizing the promising results, despite small amount, of the recent literature on the efficacy of heart rate variability biofeedback on the autonomic imbalance and psychophysical well-being of athletes as well as cognitive and motor performance.

BIOSOCIAL VALUES AND FUNCTIONS OF PHYSICAL CULTURE

Physical culture today is of particular social importance, as its purpose, subject and main result is human development and self-development. Only through a person, through the manifestation of the interdependence of the human-forming and adaptive functions of culture, is there an impact on the individual and society. The purpose is to reveal the biosocial values and functions of physical culture at the present stage of civilisational development. Methods. We used the analysis of scientific literature in the following areas: pedagogy, philosophy of culture, physical culture, pedagogical hermeneutics, methodology of science, innovation, system analysis, pedagogical synergetics, and actualisation of the personal-psychological and value-semantic factors of physical culture. Methodologically significant for our study was the concept of knowledge fundamentalisation, which includes the idea of forming «body culture». Results. The cultural analysis of physical culture shows that physical culture is a field of culture that regulates human activity (its orientation, methods, results) related to the formation, development and use of bodily-motor abilities in accordance with the norms, values and patterns accepted in the culture (subculture). In this context, it is advisable to use a new concept – somatic body culture. The content of physical culture and related phenomena can be divided into functional and performance bases. The physical culture of an individual should be considered as a biological (genetic) and socially determined sphere of general human culture (spiritual, intellectual and bodily), which is a qualitative, systemic, dynamic state that characterises psychophysical health, the level of physical (bodily) perfection, personalised and social motivational and value orientations acquired as a result of specially organised motor and sports activities and a healthy lifestyle. Ukrainian folk physical culture and all its existing means are a unique cultural phenomenon that requires not only description, but also further development and improvement, taking into account the specifics of ethno-cultural traditions in different regions of Ukraine. Conclusions. The identified groups of values of physical culture allow us to realise its essential understanding as a category that unites a significant number of concepts – sport, sport for all, physical recreation and rehabilitation, sports animation, physical qualities, physical training and fitness, sports competitions, physical education, etc.

155 CARDIO PSYCHE: OBSERVATION IN PRACTICAL MEDICINE

Abstract Background Our historical period is characterized by speeding evolution of technological processes that have allowed us to achieve excellent results in all fields. The association with the improvement of the quality of life, in its global aspect, is not a so obvious condition. Environmental factors affect more and more our perception of psychophysical health, up to, in the most serious cases, to undermine the same organic functionality, particularly at the cardiovascular level. Purpose Our observational study in clinical practice wants, as primary outcome, to evaluate the impact, on subjects showing characteristics of neurovegetative dystonia, of an integration with a homeopathic product (in association with the therapy) on the functional capacity and on the perception of psychophysical health and, as secondary outcome, the control and stabilization of functional parameters related to the cardiovascular system. Method 50 patients were selected and evaluated for characteristics of homogeneity and adherence. Features of eligibility: anxiety, panic attacks, heart palms, fatigue syndrome, autonomic (nurovegetative) dystonia, insomnia. The evaluation of the therapy by integrating a homeopathic product, where provided, in support of therapies and raise awareness to the correct lifestyle was carried out in two stages based on the following parameters: psychophysical perception of the state of health, through Questionnaire SF-36, specialist cardiological visit. The therapeutic indication provided for the intake of 15 drops of medicine 3 times a day, plus 10 drops (every 10 minutes up to an hour) in case of episodes. Results and Conclusions The observational study in real practice indicated an efficacy of the treatment both individually and in support of the therapy, without presenting contraindications. Patients reported an improvement in psychophysical health, also confirmed by medical observation and the improvement of parameters (in particular HR, but also PA, as an adjuvant to stabilization).

154 PROBIOTICS: OBSERVATION IN PRACTICAL MEDICINE

Abstract Background There are several, even recent, basic research studies that have demonstrated the microbiota's cause for the predisposition and development of degenerative disorders and risk factors: cardiovascular diseases, obesity, metabolic syndrome and diabetes. Studies, knowledge and communication on probiotics have gone and are increasingly growing, so much so that almost a "trend" of the probiotic has developed. The importance of defining the "probiotic", developing knowledge and clinical research, or evaluating the results in real clinical practice, is essential for the appropriate use for the benefit of the person. The doctor has and must have a central and primary role. Purpose The study, which we conducted in clinical practice, is of an observational type, and has as its primary outcome that of evaluating the impact of nutriceutic integration with probiotics on risk factors of inflammatory and metabolic markers and as a secondary outcome the functional capacity and perception of psychophysical health. Methods Out of 70 patients followed, 50 patients were selected and evaluated for homogeneity and adherence characteristics. Eligibility characteristics below: risk profile, familiarity for cardiovascular diseases, dysendocrine disorders, overweight and obesity, hypertension, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, fatigue syndrome, neurovegetative dystonia. The evaluation of probiotic therapy was carried out in two stages on the basis of the following parameters: psychophysical perception of the state of health, using the SF-36 Questionnaire, functional capacity by means of the physical ability test (Six Minute Walking Test 6MWT or Walking Test), blood tests: PCR, Vitamins, lipid profile. The nutraceutical scheme consists of taking 2cps after breakfast and 2 cps after Enterelle's dinner, during the first week. Bifiselle, second week, Ramnoselle third week Serobrain 1 cps after breakfast fourth week. Serobioma, one tablet per day, for 3 months: maintenance phase. Results and Conclusions The observational study in real practice indicated an efficacy of the probiotic nutraceutical treatment on patients with regard to the reduction of the measurable risk profile, improvement of the perception of health including objective level of functional capacity, stabilization of the levels of vitamins (vit B and D).

The impact of physical activity on the quality of life of a sample of Italian people with physical disability.

Physical activity promotes psychophysical health; however, to date, only few studies have investigated the association between regular physical activity and the quality-of-life perception and satisfaction in disabled persons. Our aim was to compare the quality and satisfaction for life, self-efficacy, and personal wellbeing of two samples of Italian people with physical disability (amputation, spinal cord dysfunction, neurological disability): one group with people who practiced regular physical activity (active group, n = 33) and the other group consisting of sedentary individuals (inactive group, n = 26). We compared the mean scores of the groups in the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire (WHOQoL-BRIEF), the Personal Wellbeing Index, and the Satisfaction With Life and General Self-Efficacy scales. We also compared the impact of rehabilitation, sport, family support, income, job/school, and raising a family on social life and life quality by means of separate MANOVAs. Results of the WHOQoL showed better quality of life in the active than in the inactive group (overall QOL, 4.09 ± 0.7 vs. 3.50 ± 0.9; psychological domain, 72.09 ± 12.7 vs. 62 ± 21.6; social relationships domain, 76.54 ± 16.4 vs. 59.52 ± 24.2). No difference was found for satisfaction with health and life, personal wellbeing, and self-efficacy. The impact of sport on social life and quality of life was greater in active than in inactive individuals. Findings suggest positive effects of physical activity on the perception of quality of life in disabled people. However, they do not allow disentangling whether physical activity is practiced by patients with good quality of life or whether physical activity is responsible for better quality of life.

BENEFÍCIOS DO CURSO OPCIONAL DE KUNG FU SOBRE A SAÚDE FÍSICA DOS ESTUDANTES UNIVERSITÁRIOS

ABSTRACT Objective: This paper examines the benefits of the optional Kung Fu course on students’ physical health. Methods: Specific strategies promoting elective Kung Fu courses in Chinese universities are presented after analyzing the current situation of university students’ psychophysical health. Results: According to the characteristics of martial arts students, providing effective sports intervention is an important demand for educators. Its development is also an important feature of modern sports and medicine. Conclusions: According to the analysis of the general physical status of Chinese college students at the current stage, students in ordinary colleges and universities should pay more attention to the importance of sports activities for students’ physical quality and mental health education when participating in sports activities. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment results.

IMPACT OF ONLINE CLASSES ON EDUCATION AND PSYCHO-PHYSICAL HEALTH: STUDENTS’ VIEWS

The present research paper posits to assess the impact of online classes on students’ education, psycho-physical health. Online survey was conducted to draw the sample from the students of teacher training institutions of Maulana Azad National University, Aliharh Muslim University, Jamia Millia Islamia University, Patna University and Lalit Narain Mishra University by using non standardised self-developed questionnaire. Simple per cent analysis was run on the data for analysis. Findings showed that. 54.3 % of the total students reported that online classes were effective in clarifying the concepts followed by 43% disagreed with interesting nature of online classes than the traditional, 44.3% favoured that online classes were interactive than traditional, 68.2% students were known to handle the electronic gadgets, 44.3 % were in favour that online classes were capable in holistic development of the students, 53.6 % reported that online classes were less disciplined than traditional, 72.7% students viewed that online classes were useful for languages and social studies only and 49% of the sampled students observed the poor interne speed as the major disturbing element in on line classes. Moreover, about 82 % of the sampled students had eyes related issues followed by 86% found with struggling different listed physical health related issues and more that 90% students were reported with different kinds of listed psychological issues because of on line classes. Findings of the study indicated that majority of the students had good access to online classes but with poor internet connectivity and speed. Hence, in the light of the study’s findings it has been suggested that a standard operating procedure (SOP) in respect to making use of online tools and platforms for teaching and learning process should be concocted so that effectiveness of online classes can be enhanced without putting the students at risk related to their psycho-physical health.

Body composition and psychophysical well-being of women practicing yoga

Introduction: This study characterized yoga as a form of free-time physical activity by analyzing and evaluating the body composition of women who regularly practice yoga, and by describing the effect of yoga on their psychophysical health. Material and Methods: The study involved 94 women: 56 yoga practitioners and 38 Zumba participants. The subjects were surveyed with a questionnaire to elicit information about their socioeconomic status. Body composition was determined by bioelectrical impedance analysis. Differences were assessed with two-tailed chi-square tests and Student’s t-tests. Results: The vast majority of the participants (89%) felt a positive influence of yoga on their mental well-being; 86% noticed an improvement in physical health. More than half of the subjects adhered to a diet; those who practiced yoga chose vegetarian (29%) and vegan (13%) diets more often than those who did Zumba. Yoga participants had a higher BMI than Zumba participants (24.19 vs. 23.43), but they had a lower percentage of fat (28.84% vs. 29.89%) and higher fat free mass (47.08 kg vs. 44.13 kg). Conclusions: Yoga practice positively affects the psychophysical well-being of women. Despite their higher BMI, yoga practitioners had a slightly more favorable body composition, which may indicate that yoga positively affects individual body components and body shape.

THE COMMUNICATION APPROACH AND ATTITUDES OF STUDENTS REGARDING THE EFFECTS OF SPORTS ACTIVITIES ON HEALTH

The student population is one of the most sensitive populations today, whereby it is necessary to consider the relationship between health and physical activity in order to improve students’ quality of life. In addition to physical inactivity, health status is adversely affected by constant technological innovations and excessive socializing, consumption of alcohol, tobacco and narcotics. The aim of this study was to determine the differences between the communication approach and attitudes of first- and fourth-year students of the Faculty of Sports and Physical Education on the impact of sports on health and improvement of mental hygiene. Using a 60-item questionnaire, the study included 70 healthy respondents of both genders (Mean ± SD: 20.86±1.76 years). The respondents were divided into two subsamples, i.e. a group of first-year students (IG; n=34; F=15, M=19) and a group of fourth-year students (IVG; n=36; F=18, M=18). All obtained data are presented by descriptive parameters. The reliability of the survey in terms of internal compliance was tested by Cronbach's Alpha coefficient. The manifest space of attitudes was processed by the scaling technique. The Mann-Whitney U Test was used to determine differences in attitudes between first- and fourth-year students. For statistical significance of the differences in results between groups, the p<0.05 level of significance was used. The data were processed in the SPSS statistical package. The results of the study unequivocally confirmed the existence of a positive attitude among the student population about the impact of sports on health and improvement of mental hygiene, as well as that there are no statistically significant differences in most of the variables included in the testing (eight out of ten domains), i.e. that there is no great difference in the attitudes of first- and fourth-year students on the importance of sports for their psychophysical health.

Civil society's perception of forest ecosystem services. A case study in the Western Alps.

Forest Ecosystem Services (FES) are widely recognised by the society nowadays. However, no study in the literature has analysed a ranking of FES after the pandemic. This paper investigated civil society’s perception and knowledge toward these services; in addition, the presence of attitudinal or behavioural patterns regarding individual’s preference, was assessed. A choice experiment was conducted using the Best-Worst Scaling (BWS) method on a sample of 479 individuals intercepted in the Argentera Valley, in the Western Italian Alps. Results, showed a strong interest in biodiversity, aesthetic landscape quality and psychophysical health and a lower interest in provisioning services. Based on the individual preferences, civil society was clustered into five groups for FES, named “Hedonistic,” “Individualist with cultural and health interests,” “Sensitive to regulatory and utilitarian functions,” “Climate change sensitive” and “Livelihood and hedonistic wellbeing.” In general, there was a growing appreciation by civil society for the intangible services offered by the forest, driven by modern lifestyles and an interest in learning more about the provided services. Based on these elements, we believe that similar research should be extended to other mountain contexts to validate the results or to find new insights, and that it is now necessary to study how to involve civil society in decision-making processes of forest planning and management at a local level.

Clinical presentation and etiology of Cushing's syndrome: Data from ERCUSYN.

This review presents the data on clinical presentation at diagnosis in 1564 patients included in the European Registry on Cushing's syndrome (ERCUSYN), of whom 1045 (67%) had pituitary-dependent Cushing's syndrome (CS) (PIT-CS), 385 (25%) had adrenal dependent CS (ADR-CS) and 89 (5%) had ectopic adrenocorticotropic hormone syndrome (ECT-CS). The most frequent symptoms in the overall series were weight gain (83%), hypertension (79%), skin alterations (76%) and myopathy (70%). Diabetes mellitus was present in 32% and depression in 35% of patients. Skin alterations, menstrual irregularities and reduced libido were more prevalent in PIT-CS patients compared to ADR-CS patients, whereas patients with ECT-CS more frequently had diabetes mellitus, myopathy, hirsutism and vertebral fractures compared to the other etiologies, consistent with a more severe clinical scenario. Reduced libido and bone fractures were more prevalent in men compared to women. Quality of life was poor at diagnosis, irrespective of the etiology of CS, and also associated with the presence of depression at baseline. A delay of 2 years between the onset of symptoms and diagnosis was also observed, with a high number of specialists consulted, who often missed the correct diagnosis. To develop strategies aimed at shortening the time elapsed to diagnosis, it is important to rapidly start treatment and reduce the burden of the disease on patient psychophysical health and longevity.

Cyrcadian Rhythm, Mood, and Temporal Patterns of Eating Chocolate: A Scoping Review of Physiology, Findings, and Future Directions.

This paper discusses the effect of chrononutrition on the regulation of circadian rhythms; in particular, that of chocolate on the resynchronization of the human internal biological central and peripheral clocks with the main external synchronizers, light–dark cycle and nutrition-fasting cycle. The desynchronization of internal clocks with external synchronizers, which is so frequent in our modern society due to the tight rhythms imposed by work, social life, and technology, has a negative impact on our psycho-physical performance, well-being, and health. Taking small amounts of chocolate, in the morning at breakfast at the onset of the active phase, helps speed up resynchronization time. The high flavonoid contents in chocolate promote cardioprotection, metabolic regulation, neuroprotection, and neuromodulation with direct actions on brain function, neurogenesis, angiogenesis, and mood. Although the mechanisms of action of chocolate compounds on brain function and mood as well as on the regulation of circadian rhythms have yet to be fully understood, data from the literature currently available seem to agree in suggesting that chocolate intake, in compliance with chrononutrition, could be a strategy to reduce the negative effects of desynchronization. This strategy appears to be easily implemented in different age groups to improve work ability and daily life.

ORGANIZATIONAL AND METHODOLOGICAL PECULIARITIES OF PEDAGOGICAL AND SOCIAL-PSYCHOLOGICAL REHABILITATION OF CHILDREN AND YOUTH DURING THE MILITARY EVENTS IN UKRAINE

The scientific article identifies the relevance and necessity of providing pedagogical and socio-psychological rehabilitation of children and youth in present-day Ukraine. The place of rehabilitation of persons with special needs included in the inclusive space of Ukrainian society has been determined. The article reveals the place of rehabilitation programs in the system legislative regulations. Types of rehabilitation are characterized. The author describes technologies for working with children and youth who are in a state of internal crisis and need to be restored in modern military conditions. The methodological recommendations on methods of psychological and pedagogical rehabilitation are given. Accompanying socially oriented activities in the complex rehabilitation of adolescents are characterized. The content, structural components and methods of rehabilitation are highlighted. The stage-by-stage pedagogical and social-psychological rehabilitation of children and youth has been developed and is presented in the article. The specificity of approaches to rehabilitation work with adolescents with special physical and mental needs is determined. The scientific article describes the psychological and pedagogical rehabilitation of children and youth as a complex, multi-level and dynamic system of measures aimed at improving, developing and affirming the social status of individuals, their psychological functions, qualities, properties; protection of psychophysical health and social well-being; social involvement in full-fledged life activities and capacity for action, inclusion in social relations based on the elimination of restrictions on life activities and the creation of an accessible environment. The main goals of pedagogical and socio-psychological rehabilitation of children and youth in the conditions of modern Ukraine are disclosed, including the formation and restoration of personal identity, social adaptability, promotion of professional formation, support in difficult life circumstances, promotion of adaptation to effective educational process, increase in the rehabilitation potential

Preventive Measures Pursued by College Students for The Prevention of Coronavirus in University of Kufa

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is the latest pandemic with a high rate of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Crises like these can harm the academic functioning and psychophysical health of students. Students have an important role in controlling the spread of infectious diseases by pursuing prophylactic measures and this quantitative study. Objectives: the study aims to explore how students perceive the COVID-19 crisis and what their personal experiences were while studying during the global pandemic. Methodology: It is a descriptive study on Preventive measures pursued by college students for the prevention of Coronavirus, where the sample was collected from twenty-five universities, were collected (427) among students who are studying in a different field, and the majority of them was studied at the University of Kufa (53%), the samples were collected by a questionnaire prepared and designed in two parts, the first part consists of demographic information (7 items) and the second part Preventive measurement pursued by college students (18th item). Results: The study showed that the means of scores of satisfaction of the preventive measurement (high), and also there is a no relationship between the demographic information and preventive measures, the overall total assessment is also high. Recommendations: Overall, the researcher was able to prove that college students have sufficient knowledge and awareness of COVID-19, and the majority are willing to apply safety measures in the prevention of the coronavirus Continued access to online health information resources like free courses, clinical management guidelines, and webinars on COVID-19 offered internationally.

Sex and gender differences in migraines: a narrative review

IntroductionGender medicine is a new medical approach aimed at the study of the differences between women and men in terms of prevention, diagnosis, and the outcome of all diseases. Migraines are among these. They represent the most common neurological illness; they are most prevalent in adults between 20 and 50 years of age and are three to four times more frequent in woman than in men. Affecting people in working age, migraines are a problem that strongly impacts the psychophysical health and productivity of workers, regardless of the specific job task they have.MethodsA narrative review was performed, searching for the most relevant articles describing gender differences in people suffering from migraines, and particularly in workers.ResultsMigraine global prevalence is 20.7% in women and 9.7% in men whereas prevalence in Italy is 32.9% for women and only 13.0% for men. This difference is partly explained by hormonal differences, as well as by differences in brain structure, genetic polymorphisms and neuronal pathways. Sex differences may also play a role in the progression from episodic to chronic migraine. In workers, migraines are mostly associated with strenuous physical work in men, whilst migraines triggered by night shifts, lack of sleep, or irregular sleep patterns are more common in women.ConclusionsTo this day, the reasons of sex/gender disparity for migraine are still obscure. However, migraines, chronic migraine in particular, have a negative impact on the lives of all individuals affected by this disease, but particularly in women in which family cares and working activity are often superimposed. Migraine prevention strategies should be planned in workers through the occupational health physician.

MONETARY EXPRESSION OF THE EFFECTS OF THE SPIRITUAL TECHNIQUES APPLICATION IN ORDER TO RAISE THE QUALITY OF MARKETING AND MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS IN COMPANIES

Spiritual techniques aim to influence individuals, if they are willing to approach a positive change in their negative patterns. What is available through the Nlp technique or neuro-linguistic programming is now available through other techniques as well. The importance of spiritual techniques existence is reflected in the change of lifestyle in order to live more fulfilled through all aspects of life: social, economic, business and health.If spiritual techniques were applied in companies and enterprises, starting from individuals to groups, the success of the company could be influenced. This success is reflected in the individual and group goals of the company.It is known that successful company is the one whose employees influence and work together on achieving the same and common goals of the company. The company’s management uses all available resources to raise business efficiency, which, justifiably, raises the question of monetary expression of the spiritual techniques contribution in everyday business. This paper aims to open the horizons of the business world when it comes to other strategies for successful business with the use of psychological and spiritual positive techniques. These strategies would be a new way of approaching business, and the optimal one would be sustainably based on the results of games against nature, but also on building a healthy business environment in the internal and external environment of the company. Any form of physical activity such as stretching, yoga and breathing techniques lead to the release of bad emotions and stress from our body, which improves overall quality of life. Another technique is reiki technique. Reiki is an unconventional energy healing technique. It refers to our life energy, which we all have within ourselves. All these techniques help a person to live in psychophysical balance. These techniques complement the work on ourselves through everything we normally do, such as actions, rational methods etc. We should always take real steps and actions, and be aware of the present moment. People have common sense that should be used in every situation. Combining the work on ourselves through rational, sports, health and spiritual techniques can bring many benefits to a person and it is best to combine these methods creating a unique approach to psycho-physical health. Each person should make their own combination, a unique combination of all these techniques in accordance with themselves. Personal growth results in better relationships with ourselves and others through greater support and understanding. In order to live our values, love and to understand each other, it is necessary, above all, to be kind to ourselves, to give ourselves support and understanding. If we work on internal dialogue, we can be more successful in communication with others. Indicators of monetary business efficiency based on the engagement of ESTH managers (Education, Spiritual Technique and Health manager), significantly raises business efficiency. The strategic commitment is not based on the subjective attitude of the decision maker, but on scientifically based evidence.

The Effect of Message Framing in Promoting the Mediterranean Diet: The Moderating Role of Eating Self-Efficacy.

Although a Mediterranean diet (MeDiet) provides several psychophysical health benefits, research on how to effectively promote MeDiet adherence is still lacking. In the present study, we tested the effectiveness of a messaging intervention aimed at promoting the adherence to the Mediterranean diet. A total of 435 Italian participants responded to a questionnaire on their eating self-efficacy and adherence to the MeDiet at Time 1. Then, participants were randomly assigned to three different conditions: (a) gain messages focused on the positive outcomes of MeDiet adherence; (b) non-loss messages focused on the avoided negative outcomes associated with MeDiet adherence; (c) no messages (control). After the 2 week intervention, participants answered some questions regarding their perception of threat and distress, evaluation of the messages, and adherence to the MeDiet at Time 2. We also tested whether the messaging intervention influenced participants’ MeDiet adherence at Time 2. Results confirmed that the messaging intervention enhanced the MeDiet adherence (F(2,432) = 4.61; p = 0.01, ηp2 = 0.02), with no difference between exposure to gain or non-loss messages (95% LLCI = −0.32; 95% ULCI = 0.54). We then tested whether message framing effectiveness was influenced by eating self-efficacy, and results showed that gain messages were more persuasive for participants with low eating self-efficacy (effect size = 0.01; p for interaction = 0.03). Discussion suggests that tailoring messages according to receivers’ psychological characteristics seems to be pivotal to enhance the persuasiveness of messages aimed at promoting the MeDiet adherence.

Stress associated with SARS-CoV-2 in midwives

Background: At the end of 2019, news circulated the world that a new, highly contagious coronavirus had emerged in China that caused severe disease in the respiratory tract. Subsequently, SARS-CoV-2 spread rapidly around the world. Healthcare professionals, including midwives, have been on the front lines of the fight against this disease, and their working conditions changed overnight, causing tremendous stress. Aim of the study: The purpose of this study was to analyze stress among midwives in relation to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Material and methods: This study was conducted in 2020/2021 among 500 midwives. The testing method used was a diagnostic survey consisting of a self-compiled questionnaire. 444 midwives properly completed the survey and their results were analyzed. Results: The study confirmed that the work of a midwife is stressful. More than half of those surveyed changed their attitude towards work when SARS-CoV-2 emerged. Midwives were also more likely to experience stress before going to work. Only a small percentage of the respondents had the opportunity to receive psychological help in the workplace. Conclusions: The stress caused by the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in the midwifery profession has had a negative impact on the psychophysical health of this occupational group. Thus, there is a dire need for workplace interventions for midwives to minimize the accompanying stress.

Psychophysical Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic and Same-Sex Couples' Conflict: The Mediating Effect of Internalized Sexual Stigma.

Research on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on same-sex relationships is limited. The present study aimed at analyzing the association between the psychophysical impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and same-sex couples’ conflict, also considering the potential mediating effect of internalized sexual stigma (ISS). For this purpose, psychophysical challenges and couples’ conflict during the COVID-19 pandemic, ISS, age, biological sex, sexual orientation, relationship duration, religiosity, involvement in lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) associations, sexual satisfaction, and interpersonal partner violence were assessed in an Italian sample of 232 LGB people engaged in a same-sex relationship (aged 18–45 years; Mage = 28.68, SD = 6.91). The results indicated that the psychophysical impact of the COVID-19 pandemic was significantly associated with couples’ conflict, and ISS mediated this relationship. Among the covariates considered, only sexual satisfaction was associated with couples’ conflict. The findings suggest that ISS, over and above the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on psychophysical health, triggered conflict within same-sex relationships. Studying the role of ISS in various relational and social contexts is important, as ISS may have an adverse effect on the mental health of sexual minority people. We recommend that more efforts be made to improve research on the LGB population during the public health response to the COVID-19 emergency, because the paucity of studies underlines the invisibility of this population in many domains, including the domain of romantic relationships. Implications and directions for future research are discussed.