scholarly journals Variação de Parâmetros Fisiológicos entre Cronotipos Matutino e Vespertino Correlacionada aos Jovens Universitários

UNICIÊNCIAS ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 23 (2) ◽  
pp. 70
Author(s):  
Durinézio José de Almeida ◽  
Tays Caroline Duma ◽  
André Luiz Snak ◽  
Guilherme Barroso Langoni de Freitas
Keyword(s):  
Circadian Rhythm ◽  
University Students ◽  
Clock Genes ◽  
Biological Clock ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Negative Effects ◽  
Start Time ◽  
Physiological Factors ◽  
Endogenous Factors ◽  
Cortisol Release

O ciclo sono-vigília é parte do ritmo circadiano do indivíduo, sendo de grande valia para um bom funcionamento do organismo. Sua regularidade e eficiência, bem como uma fuga dessas pode levar a grandes alterações em todos os outros mecanismos sono dependentes. O ciclo que regula o sono é influenciado por fatores endógenos (relógio biológico baseado nos clock genes) e fatores exógenos ou ambientais (Zeitgebers). O período de sono é de suma importância para a saúde física e mental, interferências acarretam uma série de efeitos negativos ao organismo em questão. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi realizar uma revisão de literatura especializada, inicialmente, levantando parâmetros gerais fisiológicos, que envolvem a cronobiologia, em seguida, a caracterização dos cronotipos e a sua variação entre os grupos populacionais, dando ênfase para estudantes universitários de períodos do dia diferentes, destacando-se os cronotipos, que mais aparecem no público mencionado. Entre os existentes (matutino, indiferente e vespertino), o predominante na população estudada é o indiferente, seguido do vespertino e matutino. Há fatores fisiológicos que são fortemente influenciados pelo cronotipo como as acrofases de temperatura corporal e liberação de cortisol, bem como o horário de início da liberação de melatonina (hormônio do sono), em que se percebeu que tais fatores são adiantados no indivíduo matutino em relação ao vespertino em aproximadamente duas horas. É de grande importância a identificação dos cronotipos, em cada indivíduo, para uma correta alocação de atividades relacionadas ao ritmo circadiano, visando um maior aproveitamento do mesmo, bem como não prejudicando processos de aprendizado e de decodificação de informações. Palavras-chave: Cronotipo. Universitários. Fisiologia. Qualidade do Sono. AbstractThe sleep-wake cycle is part of the individual’s circadian rhythm, being of paramount importance for a good functioning of the organism. Its regularity and efficiency as well as an escape from these can lead to major changes in all the other sleep dependent mechanisms. The cycle that regulates sleep is influenced by endogenous factors (biological clock based on clock genes) and exogenous (or environmental, Zeitgebers) factors. The sleep period is of paramount importance to the physical and mental health, interferences entail a series of negative effects to the organism in question. The objective of the present work was to perform a review of specialized literature, initially raising general physiological parameters involving chronobiology, then characterizing chronotypes and their variation among population groups, with emphasis on university students, especially chronotypes that appear more often in the aforementioned public. Among the existing ones (morning, indifferent and evening), the predominant in the studied population is the indifferent, followed by the evening and morning ones. There are physiological factors that are strongly influenced by the chronotype as the acrophases of body temperature and cortisol release, as well as the start time of the  melatonin release (sleep hormone), where it was perceived that such factors are advanced in the morning individual in relation to  the afternoon in about two hours. It is of great importance to identify the chronotypes in each individual for a correct activities allocation related to the circadian rhythm, aiming a greater use of the same as well as not harming learning processes and information decoding. Keywords: Chronotype. University students. Physiology. Sleep Quality. 

scholarly journals Dopamine: a modulator of circadian rhythms/biological clock

2021 ◽  
Vol 8 (2) ◽  
pp. 316
Author(s):  
Ravi Kant ◽  
Mahendra K. Meena ◽  
Monika Pathania
Keyword(s):  
Circadian Rhythm ◽  
Circadian Rhythms ◽  
Seasonal Affective Disorder ◽  
Clock Genes ◽  
Biological Clock ◽  
Bipolar Disorders ◽  
Vital Role ◽  
Brain Areas ◽  
Light Levels ◽  
Living Organisms

Circadian rhythm describes the physical, psychological, and behavioural patterns of living organisms that respond to day and night light levels. The important bodily functions like hunger, sleep, gastrointestinal motility, mood, coordination, body temperature, gene transcription, sensory perceptions, sleep-wake cycles and hormone release etc are influenced by circadian rhythm. Abnormal circadian rhythm may result obesity, depression, diabetes, seasonal affective disorder, bipolar disorders and various sleep disorders. The neuromodulator dopamine, originate from small groups of neurons in the mesencephalon (the ventral tegmental area, the substantia nigra) and in the diencephalon. In the retina, olfactory bulb, striatum, midbrain, and hypothalamus, it has been shown to have that dopamine shows circadian like activities, where it regulates, clock genes in some of these areas. Thus, it is likely that dopamine is essential to mechanisms that maintain proper rhythmicity of these five brain areas. Dopamine receptors are located centrally and peripherally. Growing evidence that dopamine is involved in regulating circadian rhythms, either directly or indirectly, in the brain areas through various pathways and dopaminergic receptor groups centrally and peripherally, and plays vital role.  

scholarly journals Discrimination and Health: The Mediating Effect of Acculturative Stress

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (10) ◽  
pp. 5312
Author(s):  
Alfonso Urzúa ◽  
Alejandra Caqueo-Urízar ◽  
Diego Henríquez ◽  
David R. Williams
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Racial Discrimination ◽  
Acculturative Stress ◽  
Short Form ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Ethnic Discrimination ◽  
Mediating Effect ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Negative Effects ◽  
Cross Sectional

There is not much evidence on the effects of south–south migration and its consequences on physical and mental health. Our objective was to examine the mediating role of Acculturative Stress in the association between ethnic discrimination and racial discrimination with physical and mental health. This research is a non-experimental, analytical, cross-sectional study. A total of 976 adult Colombian migrants living in Chile were interviewed. We used the Everyday Discrimination Scale, the acculturative stress scale, and the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form (SF-12) for health status; we found that racial and ethnic discrimination had a negative effect on physical and mental health. In the simultaneous presence of both types of discrimination, racial discrimination was completely absorbed by ethnic discrimination, the latter becoming a total mediator of the effect of racial discrimination on mental and physical health. Our findings are consistent with the literature, which suggests that there are various types of discrimination which, individually or in their intersectionality, can have negative effects on health.

scholarly journals Impact of Shift Work and Long Working Hours on Worker Cognitive Functions: Current Evidence and Future Research Needs

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (12) ◽  
pp. 6540
Author(s):  
Veruscka Leso ◽  
Luca Fontana ◽  
Angela Caturano ◽  
Ilaria Vetrani ◽  
Mauro Fedele ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Circadian Rhythm ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Sleep Disturbances ◽  
Working Hours ◽  
Night Work ◽  
Current Evidence ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Negative Effects ◽  
Long Working Hours ◽  
Main Determinants

Particular working conditions and/or organization of working time may cause important sleep disturbances that have been proposed to be predictive of cognitive decline. In this regard, circadian rhythm misalignment induced by exposure to night work or long working hours would be responsible for cognitive impairment. Nevertheless, evidence supporting this correlation is limited and several issues still need to be elucidated. In this regard, we conducted a systematic review to evaluate the association between shift/night work and cognitive impairment and address its main determinants. Information provided by the reviewed studies suggested that night work might have serious immediate negative effects especially on cognitive domains related to attention, memory and response inhibition. Furthermore, cognitive performance would progressively worsen over consecutive night shifts or following exposure to very long work shifts. Otherwise, conflicting results emerged regarding the possible etiological role that night work chronic exposure would have on cognitive impairment. Therefore, circadian rhythm desynchronization, lack of sleep and fatigue resulting from night work may negatively impact worker’s cognitive efficiency. However, in light of the considerable methodological variability of the reviewed studies, we proposed to develop a standardized research and evaluation strategy in order to obtain a better and comprehensive understanding of this topic.

scholarly journals The Experiences of Grief and Personal Growth in University Students: A Qualitative Study

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (4) ◽  
pp. 1899
Author(s):  
Jovita Tan ◽  
Karl Andriessen
Keyword(s):  
University Students ◽  
Emerging Adults ◽  
Personal Growth ◽  
Lessons Learned ◽  
Continuing Bonds ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Supportive Services ◽  
Negative Effects ◽  
Positive Effects ◽  
Formal Services

Background: Experiencing the death of a close person, especially in emerging adults and students, can have profound effects on the bereaved individual’s life. As most research in this field has focused on negative effects of a loss, little is known about potential positive effects experienced by bereaved university students. This study investigated the experience of grief and personal growth in a sample of students from The University of Melbourne, Australia. Methods: Semi-structured interviews via Zoom/telephone with bereaved students (n = 14), who were invited to reflect on their loss and any personal growth potentially experienced. Thematic analysis of the data was based on a deductive and inductive approach. Results: The analysis identified four themes: (i) sharing of grief as a coping mechanism, (ii) balance between grief reactions and moving forward in life, (iii) lessons learned and personal growth, and (iv) adopting values from the deceased person and continuing bonds. Conclusions: Participants emphasized personal growth regarding self-perception and philosophical views on life. Following the loss, they preferred peer support, and used formal services only when they had a specific need. The findings indicate the importance of social support for bereaved students, and the complimentary role of peer and professional support. Hence, academic institutions should offer supportive services tailored to both students and professionals to help bereaved students.

scholarly journals Symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, and Stress and Prevalence of Major Depression and Its Predictors in Female University Students

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (11) ◽  
pp. 5845
Author(s):  
Vanessa Blanco ◽  
Mar Salmerón ◽  
Patricia Otero ◽  
Fernando L. Vázquez
Keyword(s):  
Major Depression ◽  
University Students ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Academic Characteristics ◽  
Santiago De Compostela ◽  
University Women ◽  
Symptoms Of Depression ◽  
Life Engagement

Depression, anxiety and stress are increasingly concerning phenomena in our society, with serious consequences on physical and mental health. The repercussions may be particularly devastating in particular population subgroups, such as female university students. The purpose of this study was to determine the levels of depression, anxiety, and stress and the prevalence of depression and associated factors, in Spanish university women. A cross-sectional study was conducted with a random sample of 871 students from the Santiago de Compostela University (mean age 20.7 years, SD = 2.8). Information was collected on sociodemographic and academic characteristics; symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress; diagnosis of major depression; optimism, resilience, social support, life engagement, and five personality domains, using validated instruments. Of the participants, 18.1%, 22.8% and 13.5% presented with severe/very severe levels of depression, anxiety and stress, respectively. A total of 12.9% had major depression. Higher life engagement was associated with lower risk of depression (OR = 0.92, 95% CI 0.87–0.98), while higher levels of neuroticism (OR = 1.20, 95% CI, 1.12–1.28) and openness to experience (OR = 1.08, 95% CI, 1.02–1.14) were associated with greater risk. These findings reveal an alarming percentage of female university students who experience major depression and severe/very severe stress.

scholarly journals Sex Differences in Circadian Clock Genes and Myocardial Infarction Susceptibility

2021 ◽  
Vol 8 (5) ◽  
pp. 53
Author(s):  
Ivana Škrlec ◽  
Jasminka Talapko ◽  
Martina Juzbašić ◽  
Robert Steiner
Keyword(s):  
Myocardial Infarction ◽  
Cardiovascular Disease ◽  
Circadian Rhythm ◽  
Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms ◽  
Clock Genes ◽  
P Value ◽  
Nucleotide Polymorphisms ◽  
Single Nucleotide ◽  
Biological Sex ◽  
Significant Difference

The growing body of evidence shows a significant difference in the circadian rhythm of cardiovascular disease based on biological sex. The incidence of cardiovascular disease varies between women and men. Additionally, biological sex is vital for the timely application of therapy—chronotherapy, which benefits both sexes. This study aimed to examine the potential difference of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the circadian rhythm genes ARNTL, CLOCK, CRY2 and PER2 in women and men with myocardial infarction. A cross-sectional study was conducted, including 200 patients with myocardial infarction. Altogether, ten single nucleotide polymorphisms in the ARNTL, CLOCK, CRY2 and PER2 genes were analyzed. The Chi-square test yielded statistically significant differences in CLOCK gene rs11932595 polymorphism in a recessive genotype model between women and men with a p-value of 0.03 and an odds ratio 2.66, and a corresponding 95% confidence interval of 1.07 to 6.66. Other analyzed polymorphisms of the circadian rhythm genes ARNTL, CRY2, and PER2 did not significantly differ between the sexes. According to the study’s current results, the CLOCK gene’s genetic variability might affect myocardial infarction concerning biological sex.

scholarly journals Circadian Rhythm: Potential Therapeutic Target for Atherosclerosis and Thrombosis

2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (2) ◽  
pp. 676
Author(s):  
Andy W. C. Man ◽  
Huige Li ◽  
Ning Xia
Keyword(s):  
Circadian Rhythm ◽  
Cardiovascular Diseases ◽  
Circadian Rhythms ◽  
Circadian Clock ◽  
Therapeutic Target ◽  
Environmental Changes ◽  
Clock Genes ◽  
Vascular System ◽  
Peripheral Tissues ◽  
Inflammatory Processes

Every organism has an intrinsic biological rhythm that orchestrates biological processes in adjusting to daily environmental changes. Circadian rhythms are maintained by networks of molecular clocks throughout the core and peripheral tissues, including immune cells, blood vessels, and perivascular adipose tissues. Recent findings have suggested strong correlations between the circadian clock and cardiovascular diseases. Desynchronization between the circadian rhythm and body metabolism contributes to the development of cardiovascular diseases including arteriosclerosis and thrombosis. Circadian rhythms are involved in controlling inflammatory processes and metabolisms, which can influence the pathology of arteriosclerosis and thrombosis. Circadian clock genes are critical in maintaining the robust relationship between diurnal variation and the cardiovascular system. The circadian machinery in the vascular system may be a novel therapeutic target for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. The research on circadian rhythms in cardiovascular diseases is still progressing. In this review, we briefly summarize recent studies on circadian rhythms and cardiovascular homeostasis, focusing on the circadian control of inflammatory processes and metabolisms. Based on the recent findings, we discuss the potential target molecules for future therapeutic strategies against cardiovascular diseases by targeting the circadian clock.

scholarly journals An Evolutionary Game Analysis of Internet Public Opinion Events at Universities: A Case from China

2020 ◽  
Vol 2020 ◽  
pp. 1-14
Author(s):  
Hongying Wen ◽  
Kairong Liang ◽  
Yiquan Li
Keyword(s):  
Public Opinion ◽  
University Students ◽  
Stable Equilibrium ◽  
Equilibrium Points ◽  
Evolutionary Game ◽  
Stable Equilibrium Point ◽  
University Administration ◽  
Negative Effects ◽  
Internet Medium ◽  
The University

Internet public opinion events at universities in China occurred frequently, creating painful repercussions for reputation and stability of colleges and universities. To better cope with the problem, this paper explores an evolutionary mechanism of the university Internet public opinion events. Firstly, we discuss the interactions and behavior of three key participants: an Internet medium, university students as a whole, and administration. Secondly, we construct a tripartite evolutionary game model consisting of an Internet medium, student group, and university administration and then analyze and obtain the differential dynamic equations and equilibrium points. Subsequently, the evolutionary stable equilibrium is further analyzed. Finally, we employ numerical studies to examine how the tripartite behavior choices affect evolutionary paths and evolutionary equilibrium strategies. Results are derived as follows: under certain conditions, there exists an asymptotically stable equilibrium point for the tripartite evolutionary game. On the one hand, appropriate penalties and rewards should be provided to foster objectives and fair behaviors of the network medium. On the other hand, university students should be educated and guided to deal rationally with negative effects of Internet public opinion events. Moreover, online real-name authentication is an important and necessary measure. Finally, the university administration should release truthful, timely, and comprehensive information of Internet public opinion events to mitigate potential negative impacts.

scholarly journals Impact of COVID-19 on Physical Activity Among 10,000 Steps Members and Engagement With the Program in Australia: Prospective Study (Preprint)

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Quyen G To ◽  
Mitch J Duncan ◽  
Anetta Van Itallie ◽  
Corneel Vandelanotte
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Age Groups ◽  
Health Impact ◽  
Activity Levels ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Negative Effects ◽  
South Wales ◽  
First Case ◽  
Before And After ◽  
Important Health

BACKGROUND Physical activity is an important health behavior, due to its association with many physical and mental health conditions. During distressing events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a concern that physical activity levels may be negatively impacted. However, recent studies have shown inconsistent results. Additionally, there is a lack of studies in Australia on this topic. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to investigate changes in physical activity reported through the 10,000 Steps program and changes in engagement with the program during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Data between January 1, 2018, and June 30, 2020, from registered members of the 10,000 Steps program, which included 3,548,825 days with step data, were used. The number of daily steps were logged manually by the members or synced automatically from their activity trackers connected to the program. Measures on program usage were the number of new registered members per day, the number of newly registered organizations per day, the number of steps logged per day, and the number of step entries per day. Key dates used for comparison were as follows: the first case with symptoms in Wuhan, China; the first case reported in Australia; the implementation of a 14-day ban for noncitizens arriving in Australia from China; the start of the lockdown in Australia; and the relaxing of restrictions by the Australian Government. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to test for significant differences in number of steps between subgroups, between engagement measures in 2019 versus 2020, and before and after an event. RESULTS A decrease in steps was observed after the first case in Australia was reported (1.5%; <i>P</i>=.02) and after the start of the lockdown (3.4%; <i>P</i>&lt;.001). At the time that the relaxing of restrictions started, the steps had already recovered from the lockdown. Additionally, the trends were consistent across genders and age groups. New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory, and Victoria had the greatest step reductions, with decreases of 7.0% (<i>P</i>&lt;.001), 6.2% (<i>P</i>=.02), and 4.7% (<i>P</i>&lt;.001), respectively. During the lockdown, the use of the program increased steeply. On the peak day, there were more than 9000 step entries per day, with nearly 100 million steps logged per day; in addition, more than 450 new users and more than 15 new organizations registered per day, although the numbers decreased quickly when restrictions were relaxed. On average per day, there were about 55 new registered users (<i>P</i>&lt;.001), 2 new organizations (<i>P</i>&lt;.001), 25.6 million steps (<i>P</i>&lt;.001), and 2672 log entries (<i>P</i>&lt;.001) more in 2020 compared to the same period in 2019. CONCLUSIONS The pandemic has had negative effects on steps among Australians across age groups and genders. However, the effect was relatively small, with steps recovering quickly after the lockdown. There was a large increase in program usage during the pandemic, which might help minimize the health impact of the lockdown and confirms the important role of physical activity programs during times of distress and lockdowns.

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