bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender differences in psychological and cortisol responses to distress: A five‐year follow‐up of patients with back pain
Authors: Hyyppá Markku T. , Alaranta Hannu , Hurme Matti , Nykvist Finn , Lahtel Kari
Published: June 2007

To further evaluate gender‐related coping strategies, clinical and psychological characteristics of patients with low back pain were related to their serum cortisol levels on admission to hospital and at five‐year follow‐up after operation and/or rehabilitation.

Women expressed more somatization and depression than did men on admission, but gender difference disappeared during follow‐up while depressive feeling tended to decrease. Men had more cortisol in blood in the afternoon. Sex explained a significant proportion of the variance in cortisol values at admission, whereas depression, sex and operation contributed to variance at follow‐up.

It was concluded that gender differences in psychological coping with distress modify cortisol responses to the experience of low back pain.
Do anxiety patients with or without frequent panic attacks differ in their respnse to stress?
Authors: Albus M. , Braune St. , Höhn Th. , Scheibe G.
Published: June 2007

To evaluate different responses in norepinephrine (NE), epinephrine (E), heart rate (HR), electrodermal activity (EDA) and subjective ratings to a ‘neutral’ and a ‘patient‐specific’ stressor we compared nine anxiety patients with three or more panic attacks during the past week, 10 patients with no panic attacks during the past week and 10 controls, at baseline as well as during two stressors: a videotape containing horror scenes and a tape showing a patient having a panic attack. Both patient groups exhibited higher base levels of panicky feelings, anxiety, nervousness, NE and EDA. The panic attack tape proved a stressor that induced significantly more pronounced increases in subjective bodily symptoms, NE, E and EDA in the patients with three or more panic attacks. Our data suggest that patients with frequent panic attacks show higher reactivity to a stimulus that recalls previous experiences of panic attacks.
Anxiolytic and anxiogenic drugs: Changes in behaviour and endocrine responses
Authors: File Sandra E. , Johnston Amanda L. , Baldwin Helen A.
Published: June 2007

In order to examine the link between changes in behaviour in animal tests of anxiety and the corticosterone stress response, this article: (1) reviews the changes in plasma corticosterone conentrations when rats are exposed to animal tests of anxiety; (2) describes the effect in animal tests of anxiety of administering CRF, ACTH and corticosterone; (3) describes the effects of the benzodiazepines and other anxiolytic drugs on plasma corticosterone concentrations of stressed and unstressed animals; (4) describes the effects on stressed and unstressed corticosterone concentrations of administering anxiogenic drugs. It is concluded that an antistress effect is not a necessary consequence of an anxiolytic drug action and that a prostress effect may not necessarily predict an anxiogenic drug action.
The drug treatment of anxiety and panic disorder
Authors: Rickels Karl , Case Warren G. , Schweizer Edward
Published: June 2007

The mainstay of drug treatment of non‐psychotic anxiety is the benzodiazepine group of drugs, but major side‐effects are sedation and dose‐related psychomotor, cognitive and memory impairments. However, tolerance to sedation‐related side‐effects usually develops, although not to the anxiolytic effects. Buspirone, an azaspiro‐decanedione, is the first FDA‐approved non‐benzodiazepine anxiolytic. Anxiolytic efficacy similar to the benzodiazepines has been established, although the onset of effect is more gradual. Infrequent side‐effects are dizziness, nausea, headaches, nervousness and lightheadedness; but it would not appear to cause sedation, memory effects or physical dependence. In a double‐blind prospective study to compare buspirone to clorazepate, withdrawal effects occurred with the latter but not with the former. In formulating treatment strategies for anxiety and panic disorders, consideration should be given to the duration of symptoms and likely duration of therapy, and anxiolytics should be titrated to the lowest possible dose consistent with maximal relief of anxiety and the least adverse effects.
A behaviorally oriented stress reduction program and its effects upon self‐reported gastric complaints
Authors: Uhes Michael J. , Sweet Andrew A. , Cowles Suzette
Published: June 2007

The response of common but disturbing gastric complaints to psychological intervention has not been studied despite evidence that clinical levels of gastrointestinal disorders respond to treatment. The present study examines the effect of a behaviorally oriented stress reduction program on such self‐reported gastrointestinal complaints among a group of 179 subjects. Pre‐and post‐treatment measures were obtained on the frequency of indigestion, nausea, ulcer attacks, colitis, diarrhea, and constipation complaints. Significant decreases were found from pre to post indigestion, nausea, colitis, diarrhea, and constipation and significant decreases were maintained at follow‐up for indigestion, nausea and constipation complaints. These results suggest that relief from common gastric complaints may be obtained from a behaviorally oriented treatment program, and that such a program may also affect the potential development of maladaptive learned gastric response habits.
Autogenic training in mild essential hypertension: A placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Rossi Nicolino , Caldari Roberto , Costa F. Vittorio , Ambrosioni Ettore
Published: June 2007

Autogenic training has been tested in 10 previously untreated patients with mild essential hypertension by performing a placebo‐controlled study during a period of six months. Autogenic training induces a significant decrease of both casual (12–15 mmHg) and baseline (7–20 mmHg) systolic blood pressure. No significant decrease incasual diastolic significantly only at the fifth month when patients were still on placebo. No significant decreases in casual diastolic blood pressure and in heart rate were recorded. Autogenic training exerted a positive influence in psychoneurotic symptoms. It is concluded that this kind of therapeutic approach can be tried only in young patients with mild or labile systolic hypertension or as a support to pharmacological treatment.
Unemployment and mortality
Authors: Iversen Lars
Published: June 2007

The literature concerning unemployment and mortality is reviewed. Studies on the aggregate level do not show a systematic relation between unemployment and mortality on a societal level. Longitudinal studies in which cohorts of unemployed and employed people are followed up for 10 years show SMR values from about 110 to 200. These studies do not include information on health status before the onset of unemployment and therefore do not present adequate possibilities for evaluating the extent and significance of health‐related selection. Unemployment is a psychosocial stressor that threatens the identity, self‐esteem, social network and economy of unemployed people. Studies on psychological well‐being show that unemployment as a stressor is modified by a number of factors, such as various coping patterns. We put forward the hypothesis that when unemployment is an element of downward mobility it is particularly damaging and may be associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Finally, we emphasize the need for a more flexible theory on unemployment as a stressor and for regarding unemployment as a dynamic element in a person's relation to the labour market.
Trauma in the tube: The problem of railway suicide and its consequences
Authors: Cocks Robert A.
Published: June 2007

There is some evidence to suggest that the pattern of serious suicide attempts is changing and that this change is influenced by the public awareness of the efficacy of particular methods as reported by the media. Railway suicide is only one of several popular means, but at least three studies suggest that its use is increasing both in England and in Canada. This method of suicide has definite effects upon the train drivers, who may suffer long‐term stress‐related disability. More research is needed into the motivation of psychiatrically ill patients to commit suicide and for better means to detect early warning signs which may lead to such an event.
Pity the spouse! Depression within marriage
Authors: Fadden Gráinne
Published: June 2007

The literature on depression in marriage and the effects of depression on the patient's spouse is reviewed. Current treatments for depression frequently do not result in long‐term recovery. Relatives experience a considerable burden but their needs are often ignored. Typically, they receive very little information from professionals about the patient's illness or how to cope with the difficulties they face. Marital difficulties are sometimes present and may either result from or contribute to one partner's depression. However, problems of an interpersonal nature are usually not addressed once clinical improvement has been achieved. Psychosocial interventions are used only following several relapses. The need for broader assessment and outcome criteria is emphasized. Long‐term recovery may be more likely if interventions are directed at the various problems which exist, rather than concentrating solely on symptom relief. The methods used in the schizophrenia intervention studies and and with “normal” couples may be applicable when one partner is depressed. The few studies which have employed marital therapy as a treatment for depression, either alone or in combination with other therapies, show promising results. Further research is needed to ascertain which approach or combination of approaches is most successful in achieving long‐term recovery in depression.
Stress and the medical practitioner
Authors: Belfer Boris
Published: June 2007

There are stresses peculiar to being a medical practitioner, and superadded stressors applicable to women doctors. Some are extrinsic, some intrinsic. An interacting model is suggested: stresses that are inherent in the practice of medicine precipitate mental disorder in those predisposed to it; practice is particularly stressful to the ambitious, inflexible individual with a family history of mental disturbance and unhappy or unstable childhood.
Stress among construction site managers — A preliminary study
Authors: Sutherland Valerie , Davidson Marilyn J.
Published: June 2007

This article presents the results of a pilot study investigating stress among site managers in a large UK construction organization. It involved in‐depth interviews and standardized psychosocial questionnaires. A total of 36 male middle and senior construction site managers took part in the study. The major sources of stress isolated by the managers were related to; communication problems; work overload; conflict; and the limited time spent with family. The results revealed that job satisfaction levels were not as high as comparable managerial groups, and most dissatisfaction was related to employee relations issues. Mental well‐being was lower than for other population groups. Furthermore, low levels of social support from a spouse or partner were significantly associated with high anxiety, depression and reduced level of mental well‐being. Comparisons with white‐collar managers are made and the article also proposes recommendations based on the findings of this study.
Stress reactions among Swedish health care personnel in unifil, South Lebanon 1982–1984
Authors: Lundin Tom , Ulfotto
Published: June 2007

Since 1948 almost 50,000 Swedish men and women have been in military UN service in more than 15 countries under very different circumstances. The stress situation for UN soldiers is quite different form soldiers in other military situations. The UN soldier might be scared by his own aggressiveness, because of his limited opportunities to use his weapons. The mission for the UNIFIL hospital in Naqoura, a few kilometres north of the Israeli border, is to provide the UN forces (5000–6000 soldiers) with hospital care and specialized medical services. Three contingents (N = 421) during three years have been studied by means of, questionnaires, self‐rating scales, a personality inventory test (KSP) and personal interviews. The personal interviews were structured and performed during the last mouth of service for each contingent. The UN soldiers were interviewed by six experienced psychiatrists, who were all well acquainted with the Swedish military system. All the interviews took place within the Swedish UN hospital area in south Lebanon, during one week for each group.
Metoprolol oros: Reducing medication stress in hypertension
Authors: Murphy J. Eric , Wheatley David
Published: June 2007

Antihypertensive drug therapy constitutes a “life sentence” of drug‐taking for the patient and reduction of medication stress, by a simplified dose regime helps to ensure patient compliance. Metoprolol Oros (Metoros) contains 190 mg of metoprolol fumarate which allows continuous release of the drug by osmotic pressure to provide adequate therapeutic dose levels for 24 hours. Metoprolol Oros was compared to conventional metoprolol 100 mg bd in 60 newly diagnosed hypertensive patients for 12 weeks, following a one‐week control period. Significant reductions in pulse rate and systolic and diastolic blood pressures occurred in both groups but were significantly greater with metoprolol Oros (p<0.05). Thus, with metoprolol Oros the mean blood pressure fell from 177/103 to 150/84 and with metoprolol fumarate bd from 175/104 to 159/92 mm Hg. by the end of the trial. There were no significant differences between changes in supine and upright blood pressures in either group. The commonest side‐effect with metoprolol Oros was lassitude occuring in six cases (9 per cent) (metoprolol bd three cases, 10 per cent); whilst in the metoprolol fumarate bd group it was nocturia (six cases, 21 per cent) (Oros three cases, 10 per cent). There were no statistically significant between‐group differences in respect of any side‐effects. It was concluded that the trial had demonstrated metoprolol Oros to be an effective method of reducing blood pressure with superior results to the conventional form of the drug.
Irritability and physical symptoms in a three‐generation study of Mexican Americans
Authors: Lee David J. , Markides Kyriakos S.
Published: June 2007

The association between physical symptom reporting and scores on the irritability subscale on the Buss‐Durkee Hostility Inventory was analyzed in a three‐generation sample of Mexican americans. Moderate associations were found between symptom‐reporting and irritability after controlling for alcohol consumption, smoking, marital status, age, income, education, and depressed affect. The strength of these associations varied by generation and gender. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that irritability may be associated with illness symptomatology. Implications of these findings for future research are discussed.
Stress in speech therapy
Authors: Tatham Alan , LCST Bette Clough , Maxwell Victor
Published: June 2007

Despite high dropout rates within the profession, there has been little reported in the literature of stress concerning speech therapists. A questionnaire/survey was carried out of speech therapists within one regional health authority, examining demographic data, experience of stress, happiness in job, and factors producing strees. Clear evidence was Obtained that UK speech therapists report high levels of stress. Although large numbers were happy in their job, a significant number wished to leave. There were few correlations between reported stress and other factors. There was some indication of home‐work interaction and some differences between full‐time and part‐time staff. More obhisticated measures of stress utilizing grid techniques are recommended.
Job stress, mental health and job satisfaction among UK senior nurses
Authors: Baglioni A. J. , Cooper Cary L. , Hingley Peter
Published: June 2007

Given that nursing is a potentially high‐stress occupation, the present study examines the effect of specific occupational stressors, coping strategies and type A behaviour on job satisfaction and mental well‐being of 475 UK senior nurses. Several stressors were identified which had a negative impact on job satisfaction. However, only stress associated with the nurse manager's workload was consistently found to be a predictor of mental health outcome measures. In addition, cognitive and behavioural coping techniques were noted.
Elevated blood pressure in air traffic controllers during a period of occupational conflict
Authors: Mundal R. , Erikssen J. , Bjørklund R. , Rodahl K.
Published: June 2007

Blood pressure and resting heart rate were examined by standardized procedures in 33 air traffic controllers during a period of occupational conflict in 1981, followed by a reexamination of 27 of them in 1982 when the conflict was resolved, and again in 23 of them in 1988 when there was no conflict.

The mean systolic blood pressure in the 27 air traffic controllers in 1982 was 116 mmHg as against 136 in 1981, a highly significant difference (p < 0.001). In 1988 the mean blood pressure was 121 mmHg in the 23 air traffic controllers examined on all three occasions, i.e. still significantly lower than in 1981 and only 5 mmHg higher than in 1982, roughly equivalent to the expected increase due to increase in age. The mean diastolic pressure was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in 1981 (90–87) than in 1982 (75–73) and 1988 (81–78), and thus slightly higher in 1988 than in 1982 as expected, due to age. The resting heart rates were essentially unaffected.

The effect of occupational conflict on the blood pressures reported here should be kept in mind when considering blood pressure levels in occupational groups. It may in fact explain some of the conflicting results reported in the literature concerning the blood pressure of air traffic controllers.
Functional insomnia in relation to alexithymic features and cortisol hypersecretion in a community sample
Authors: Hyyppä Markku T. , Lindholm Tomi , Kronholm Erkki , Lehtinen Ville
Published: June 2007

The occurrence of alexithymic features (inability to verbalize emotions) and cortisol hypersecretion was investigated in 257 subjects drawn from a Finnish adult community sample. Seventy‐five were considered to have poor sleep, 154 were good sleepers and 28 intermediate sleepers. The quality of sleep was investigated with the help of a self‐report‐based questionnaire, and alexithymic features were assessed during a psychiatric interview. Cortisol hypersecretion was measured by the dexamethasone suppression test (DST). Alexithymic features were clearly related to self‐reported insomnia and especially to long sleep latency (SL). Age and sex covaried with the relation between alexithymic features and quality of sleep. However, independent of age and sex, subjects with alexithymic features reported significantly more insomnia, difficulty in maintaining sleep (DMS) and parasomnias than non‐alexithymics. Though the occurrence of DST non‐suppressors did not differ in the good and the poor sleepers, the post‐dexamethasone cortisol level positively associated with alexithymic features. The data support but do not definitely prove the arousal theory of functional (psychophysiological) insomnia, ie a tendency of internalize psychic conflicts and an inability to verbalize them may lead to increased arousal and subsequent insomnia.
Mental health, job satisfaction, alcohol intake and occupational stress among dealers in financial markets
Authors: Kahn Howard , Cooper Cary L.
Published: June 2007

This study assessed the job stress and stress‐coping mechanisms associated with the mental health, job satisfaction and alcohol intake of dealers (i.e. traders in currency, gilts, swaps, bonds, etc.) working in the City of London. Two hundred and twenty‐five dealers completed questionnaires providing data on the independent variables of job stress, stress‐coping methods, coronary‐prone (type A) behaviour, locus of control, personality, sources of stress in the job, and demographic and biographic factors. Dependent variables were mental health, job satisfaction, and alcohol consumption. It was found that male dealers showed significantly higher anxiety scores than the normative population. The job satisfaction levels of dealers was found to be high. 41.3 per cent of dealers reported drinking more than the average for professionals and 23.6 per cent reported drinking at least twice as much as the recommended maximum weekly intake. Male dealers drank significantly more than female dealers. Multivariate analysis disclosed that the stress of taking risks and achieving high performance was related to both low job satisfaction and low mental health. The stress‐coping method of prioritizing and planning work was related to job satisfaction, mental health and lower alcohol consumption. Internal locus of control was found to be associated with both job satisfaction and mental health. Neuroticism was also highly predictive of mental health, as expected. Dealers working for US‐owned financial institutions were found to indicate significantly less job satisfaction and poorer mental health than dealers working for British‐owned institutions.
Obsessive–compulsive disorder
Authors: Zetin Mark
Published: June 2007

Obsessive–compulsive disorder is a well‐defined clinical syndrome which has been very difficult to treat with standard psychotherapies and medications. There is a ‘hidden epidemic’ of silent sufferers who will begin seeking treatment as general knowledge of the efficacy of serotinin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants and behavioral therapy becomes widespread. The serotonin model requires us to reconceptualize the monoamine reuptake inhibitors as more than antidepressants and raises the issue of whether there is a commonality in the biology of compulsions, impulsivity, bulimia, and suicide.
Kuwait Airways hijack: Psychological consequences for survivors
Authors: Thompson James
Published: June 2007

This article reports on the psychological reactions of subjects who survived the hijacking of a Kuwait Airways jet in April 1988. Subjects were sent questionnaires within two weeks of their release, and 13 of the 22 survivors replied. Eight of these subjects were showing probable psychological distress and in three of them this was in the severe category. The most common complaints were of anxiety and intrusive memories, and to a lesser extent an inability to function properly at home and at work. Nine survivors replied to a follow‐up six months later; four of them were above the cutoff point for psychological distress. The key features of the survivors' reactions are discussed.
A longitudinal study of the occurrence and persistence of post‐traumatic health problems in disaster survivors
Authors: Holen Are
Published: June 2007

In order to explore the impact of catastrophic stress on health problems, the insurance records of workers (N = 73) surviving an oil rig disaster were studied longitudinally. The figures were compared with a group (N = 89) of offshore oil workers not exposed to disaster and matched for an age and sex. The observation period lasted from the disaster in 1980 through the first six months of 1988. Baseline data from the two years prior to the disaster showed no significant differences between the populations. However, among the survivors a significant increase in general morbidity appeared during the aftermath of the disaster with regard to both occurrence and persistence. When diagnoses were divided into ‘psychiatric’ and ‘non‐psychiatric’ the most striking changes were found for the psychiatric diagnoses. More moderate, yet significant differences emerged for the non‐psychiatric diagnoses. Of these, the psychosomatic diagnoses tended to show significant differences while the group of general somatic diagnoses did not. Indications of an increased accident proneness in the survivors were also demonstrated. Occurrence rates and the level of persistence remained fairly stable throughout the observation period; no obvious decline over the years was found. The findings emphasize the need for appropriate help programme for the victims of catastrophic stress aiming at the reduction of the occurrence and persistence of psychiatric and non‐psychiatric health problems.
Psychiatric disorders in primary health care clinics one year after a major latin american disaster
Authors: Lima Bruno R. , Pai Shaila , Caris Luis , Haro Josep Maria , Lima Ana Maciel , Toledo Virginia , Lozano Julio , Santacruz Hernan
Published: June 2007

One year after a major natural disaster in Colombia, 100 consecutive adult patients attending two primary health care clinics in neighboring towns were screened for emotional distress with the Self‐Reporting Questionnaire, and a sub‐sample of 50 subjects were administered a semi‐structured psychiatric interview to produce DSM‐III diagnoses. Of those, 20 (40%) had a psychiatric diagnosis: post‐traumatic stress disorder (n = 12), generalized anxiety disorder (n = 6), psychological factors complicating physical illness (n = 1), and drug abuse (n = 1). The screening instrument proved adequate for the identification of patients at risk of having a psychiatric disorder: its sensitivity was 90%, and its specificity was 50%.
Stress and immunity in individuals at risk for aids
Authors: Antoni Michael H. , LaPerriere Arthur , Schneiderman Neil , Fletcher Mary Ann
Published: June 2007

We have examined psychosocial and immune system stress responses in gay men before and after their notification of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV‐1) status and as a consequence of stress management intervention procedures. Prior to notification, early stage, asymptomatic, seropositive men displayed compromised immunity as evidenced by significant decreases in CD4+ cell number, the helper subset (CD29 + CD4 +), CD4 +/CD8 + ratio, and lymphocyte responses to mitogens. Prior to diagnosis, both seronegative and seropositive men revealed suppression of NK cell cytotoxicity and mitogen responsivity relative to matched laboratory control subjects not awaiting diagnosis. Immune suppression in these seronegative men disappeared after diagnosis, indicating its relationship to anticipation of serostatus notification. We also found that a 10‐week program of aerobic exercise or psychosocial stress management buffered the psychological impact of notification of seropositivity. The aerobic exercise program produced a significant increase in CD4+ cells for seronegatives and a smaller increase approaching significance for seropositives. The psychosocial intervention, which included relaxation training and cognitive stress management, produced significant increases in CD4+ and NKH.1 + for seronegatives and CD45R + CD4 + cell number and mitogen responsivity for seropositives. We are assessing our interventions as tools for retarding immune deterioration and disease progression in HIV‐1 seropositive individuals.
Depression, distress, and immunity: Risk factors for infectious disease
Authors: Levy Sandra M. , Heiden Lynda
Published: June 2007

Immunological findings from studies of depressed populations are reviewed, and selected methodological issues are addressed related to the area of human behavioral immunology. Of particular interest here is the role of natural killer (NK) cell activity in health risk, and the possible effects of negative mood or distress as a modifier of natural immunity in normal populations. Results from a longitudinal study of community volunteers suggested that individuals who were currently healthy, but who exhibited a persistently low pattern of basal natural immunity and who perceived their environment as more stressful, were at risk for development of infectious disease over follow‐up. The results also suggested that plasma beta endorphin might be playing some moderating role in affecting the observed pattern of NK activity in the sample.
Coping with stress
Authors: Sachs Bernice C.
Published: June 2007

Sixty per cent of office visits to family practitioners are prompted by emotionally induced, stress‐related symptoms. How a person responds to life events, not the events themselves, influences susceptibility to disease. Failure to cope well with stress can enhance illness and impair the immune system, whereas adequate coping reflects psychological strength that promotes health.

The core of stress management is teaching a patient to relax and it is here that hypnosis is of major importance. Hypnotic suggestion exerts a potent force on imagination. Using self‐hypnosis with ego‐strengthening suggestions enhances self‐esteem and a healthy sense of control over one's life.

Neutralizing anxiety, fear and tension through hypnosis creates a generalized decrease in autonomic nervous system activity which results in reducing the stress that contributes to disease.
A criterion oriented validation study of the OSI outcome measures on a sample of health service employees
Authors: Rees David W. , Cooper Cary L.
Published: June 2007

The Occupational Stress Indicator (OSI) was used on 1042 employees of a district health authority in the North West of England. They consisted of 524 nurses, 61 junior doctors, 144 staff of professions allied to medicine, 62 scientific and technical staff, 26 catering staff, 38 maintenance staff, 12 general managers and 48 of unknown occupation. There were highly significant positive correlations between mental and physical ill‐health and self‐reported sickness absence, and a highly significant inverse correlation between job satisfaction and sickness absence.
Uses of the dependency grid for investigating social support in stressful situations
Authors: Talbot Reg , Cooper Cary L. , Ellis Bob
Published: June 2007

The Dependency Grid may be useful in measuring social support in stressful situations. We compared 14 hypertensive patients to a matched control set of normals, the samples being restricted to men with a mean age of 42–43 years. The potential that the Dependency Grid and its many possible variants have for investigating social support systems was demonstrated and, although the samples were small, enough differences between hypertensive and normals were revealed to warrant its further development.
Can antistress music tapes reduce mental stress?
Authors: Hatta Takeshi , Nakamura Minako
Published: June 2007

The effects of so‐called antistress music tapes on reduction of mental stress were examined using Cox and Mackay's SACL, Japanese edition (J‐SACL). Fifty‐two subjects were exposed to experimentally induced stressful situations and the J‐SACL was administered before and after this stress exposure. The results indicated that: (1) music tapes in general could reduce both the stress and arousal factors of the J‐SACL; (2) however, differential effects in stress reduction of antistress music tapes were not demonstrated; (3) stress‐reducing effects were more prominent in stress than in arousal factors.
Personality characteristics and proneness to burnout: A study among psychiatrists
Authors: Naisberg‐Fennig Silvana , Fennig Shmuel , Keinan Giora , Elizur A.
Published: June 2007

Burnout syndrome is commonly considered as resulting from prolonged emotional load. Thus, it has been hypothesized that people with certain personality characteristics which make them more liable to intense emotional arousal are likely to be burnout‐prone. Forty‐nine psychiatrists, residents and specialists from three hospitals participated in the study. The personality characteristics chosen weree: repression‐sensitization (RS), anxiety state (AS) and learned resourcefulness (LR), Also recorded were age, tenure at job, time in workplace, marital status, and country of origin. Burnout was found to be positively related to AS and to RS and negatively related to LR. Burnout was negatively correlated with tenure and years in place of employment (but not significantly).
Teachers' stress in Japanese primary schools: Comparison with workers in private companies
Authors: Hatta Takeshi , Nishiide Sachiyo
Published: June 2007

The levels and characteristics of stress in Japanese primary school teachers and white‐collar workers of private companies were compared. Two hundred and twenty‐four teachers and two hundred and fifty workers answered the stress test, which included subscales on subjective mood, social events, and physical conditions. The results indicated that the claim of lower stress in Japanese primary school teachers than in white‐collar workers was not true. The findings suggested an interaction between group and stress subscales: that is, teachers were experiencing severe mental stress while white‐collar workers were suffering from physical disease.
Psychosomatically induced death: Relative to stress, hypnosis, mind control, and voodoo: Review and possible mechanisms
Authors: Morse Donald R. , Martin John , Moshonov Joshua
Published: June 2007

A common denominator in psychosomatically induced death is stress. Death can occur slowly, as from the preponderance of chronic stressors, or it can come on suddenly, as from an acute stressor. Sudden death is more likely in an individual with a preexistent serious medical condition such as hypertension, CAD, diabetes mellitus, hyperthyroidism, peptic ulcer, Cushing's disease, and bronchial asthma. Individuals are more prone to sudden death who are: (1) highly anxious; (2) hostile; (3) manipulative of the environment; (4) anger repressors; (5) rapid shifters between anxiety and depression; (6) sufferers of a recent major less; or (7) socially isolated. Most cases of sudden death are related to the presence of a severely stressful situation in which there appears to be no means of control or escape. With mind control, hypnosis, and voodoo curses, circumstances can be manipulated to achieve severe stress and uncontrollability.
Type a behaviour pattern of faculty choice among males and females in Singapore
Authors: Chew Irene K. H.
Published: June 2007

This exploratory study examined the characteristics of Type A behaviour pattern (TABP) among 341 undergraduates of three different faculties of a university in Singapore. It attempted to show if differences in faculty choice of males and females could be attributed to TABP. The findings of the article indicated that the choice of the faculty differs between male and female and that these differences are explained by the hostility trait of the TABP. The sample showed a high proportion of a Type A behaviour pattern. The tendency towards TABP was higher among females than males. It would appear that increased urbanization, such as in Singapore, is a Type A‐promoting social contingency.
Physical abuse and physical punishment as precursors of suicidal behavior
Authors: Lester David
Published: June 2007

Contrary to theoretical predictions, experience of physical abuse as a child and physical punishment from the father was associated with an increased incidence of attempted suicide in a sample of prison inmates.
Plasma beta‐endorphin, cortisol and norepinephrine responses to physical and metabolic stressors in young and elderly humans
Authors: Martignoni E. , Costa A. , Blandini F. , Petraglia F. , Facchinetti F. , d'Eril G. V. Melzi , Nappi G. , Genazzani A. R.
Published: June 2007

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of ageing on the activity of both the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis and the sympathetic system in response to physical and metabolic stimuli. Eight young and eight elderly healthy subjects were studied. Three different tests were performed: handgrip, cold pressor and insulin‐induced hypoglycaemia. Plasma beta‐endorphin (β‐END), cortisol and norepinephrine (NEpi) levels were measured before and during the tests. While the two physical tests, handgrip and cold pressor, did not induce significant changes in plasma β‐END and cortisol levels, plasma NEpi levels rose in both young and aged subjects. The response of plasma NEpi was significantly higher in elderly than in young men. During the insulin‐induced hypoglycaemia, plasma β‐END, cortisol and NEpi values significantly increased in both young and elderly men, the group of elderly subjects showing an enhanced responsiveness of plasma NEpi levels.

These data suggest that ageing is associated with an increased activity of the sympathetic system and a normal responsiveness of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis to the hypoglycaemic stress.
Stress and lambliasis in patients with respiratory allergic disease
Authors: Herrera Julian A. , De Herrera Myriam Arevalo , Hurtado Hugo , Herrera Socrates
Published: June 2007

The association between stress, humoral and cellular immune response and intestinal parasites was evaluated in 102 patients in a randomized double‐blind study. Sixty‐four (62.7 per cent) presented respiratory allergic disease (RAD) at the time of the clinical and laboratory tests; the other 38 (37.3 per cent) were normal individuals. Higher levels of IgE associated with RAD were observed in patients with family dysfunction (p< 0.05). All the other immunological parameters that were measured — total B and T lymphocytes, helper (CD4) and suppressor/cytotoxic (CD8) T lymphocytes as well as IgG and IgA levels — were similar in both the allergic and the control groups. Twenty‐two patients (22.5 per cent) were positive forGiardia lamblia, 86.3 per cent of them suffering RAD (p< 0.03). Regression analysis showed that patients with high levels of IgE and eosinophilia were associated withG. lambliainfection. This study indicates a higher frequency of lambliasis in RAD and shows that family stress was significantly associated with this allergic condition.
Anxiety sensitivity in essential hypertension
Authors: Pagotto Uberto , Fallo Francesco , Fava Giovanni Andrea , Boscaro Marco , Sonino Nicoletta
Published: June 2007

A possible role of anxiety in the pathogenesis of essential hypertension is still controversial. We included the new concept of anxiety sensitivity (ie fears of anxiety symptoms) in the psychometric evaluation of hypertensive patients. Twenty patients with essential hypertension successfully managed by nifedipine and 20 normal subjects were administered two self‐rating scales, the Symptom Questionnaire (SQ) and the Anxiety Sensitivity Index (ASI). Compared to controls, hypertensive patients showed significantly (p < 0.05) higher levels of anxiety sensitivity measured by ASI, and no differences in anxiety and well‐being measured by SQ. Increased anxiety sensitivity could be a consequence of the diagnosis of hypertension or constitute itself a predisposing factor for its development.
Preclinical evidence for the anxiolytic activity of 5‐HT3 receptor antagonists: A review
Authors: Olivier Berend , Mos Jan , Van Der Heyden Jan , Van Der Poel Guus , Tulp Martin , Slangen Jef , De Jonge Rian
Published: June 2007

From ancient history to present times, mankind has sought for anxiolytics, and various medications have been found and consequently used, at present culminating in heavy benzodiazepine use. Side‐effects such as dependence and tolerance have always induced the need, and accordingly the search, for new and better treatments. The 5‐HT1A receptor agonists like buspirone are an example of such new therapeutic agents. Whether or not those compounds will indeed be better as well remains to be seen. Recently another new class of putative anxiolytics has been proposed, the 5‐HT3 receptor antagonists. The present article reviews the evidence for anxiolytic activity of this new class of compounds of animal models of anxiety. Compared to the established anxiolytics (benzodiazepines and, to a lesser extent, 5‐HT1A receptor agonists) 5‐HT3 receptor antagonists have a different anxiolytic profile. They are active in a limited number of animal models, they often are very potent and the ratio between therapeutic activity and side‐effects is remarkably large. No evidence for tolerance or rebound effects was found, which makes them an attractive alternative to the benzodiazepines. Preliminary human clinical data are controversial; some investigators have reported positive effects in anxiety, others have not been able to demonstrate this.
The Wheatley Stress Profile
Authors: Wheatley David
Published: June 2007

The Wheatley Stress Profile (WSP) has been designed to quantify stress in nine areas: Social habits (drinking, smoking, etc.), Social relationships (at work, recreation, with a partner, close confidante, other people and personal appearance), Life events (either recent or in the past), Sexual (libido, relations with partner, physical and psychological problems, guilt, dyspareunia and fear of pregnancy for women), Psychiatric (Raskin‐Covi and Hamilton Rating Scales), Old age (isolation, failing senses and bodily functions, etc.), Menstrual (menstrual irregularities, PMS, menopause), and ‘Stress and the Heart’.
General versus specific measures of occupational stress: An Australian police survey
Authors: Evans Barry J , Coman Greg J.
Published: June 2007

Groups of police officers from two Australian police forces completed a number of psychological tests to determine the stressors of police life and to assess the impact of a number of personality variables on stress appraisals. Work stresses were found to fall into two discernible categories: job content stressors — those which arise from the duties police officers carry out — and job context stressors — those which derive from the nature of the police organizations in which officers perform their duties. All personality measures correlated more highly with job context stressors than with job content stressors, suggesting that the major source of stress for police officers come from the organization in which they work.
The stress profile in China: A pilot study in patients with psychological disorders
Authors: Jianlin Ji , Wheatley David
Published: June 2007

The stress Profile was translated into Chinese and used as an instrument for assessment of stress in 20 Chinese patients and 28 normal subjects. The Chinese profile was then validated for reliability and also against the Hamilton anxiety and depression rating scales (HRSA and HRSD). Good correlations were recorded for the total and sub scores of the Stress Profile in test–retest and interrater reliabilities and there was a significant correlation with the HRSD, but not quite significant with the HRSA. However, after treatment, the correlations became significant with both Hamilton scales.
Combined use of hypnosis and emg biofeedback in the treatment of stress‐induced conditions
Authors: Elton Diana
Published: June 2007

Hypnotherapy has been used successfully in the treatment of stress‐induced conditions. In this study the use of hypnosis is compared with the use of hypnosis plus EMG biofeedback in the framework of behavioural therapy. Twenty subjects, seven male and 13 female, mean age 37 years, suffering from stress and tension headaches were treated by hypnosis and behavioural therapy. Their results were compared with a group of 20 subjects, eight male and 12 female, mean age 33 years, who were given EMG biofeedback therapy in conjunction with the above treatments. There was no significant difference between the two groups on age, sex or social economic status and on stress and pain measures. Assessment was by measures on stress inventories and pain charts. The baseline measures were compared with the measures at week 12 and after 6 months. EMG biofeedback therapy was administered by placing electrodes on the subjects' forehead 30 ms prior to seeing the therapist. Both groups received 12 half‐hour sessions of hypnosis and behavioural psychotherapy. The biofeedback group received an additional 30 ms on biofeedback apparatus. The results indicated that both groups showed significant gains, but the hypnosis and biofeedback group showed better results and reported that they found it easier to accept hypnotic training and self‐regulation. The study indicates that EMG biofeedback has been useful in facilitating the treatment process and subsequent self‐improvement training of the subjects. Follow‐up study shows that both groups maintained most of their original gains.
Effective management of life stress: The resource–congruence model
Authors: Wong Paul T. P.
Published: June 2007

This article questions traditional conceptions of stress and coping and presents a more comprehensive analysis of stress management. Sources of stress are expanded to include various intrapsychic and interpersonal stressors. The evolution of coping strategies is described, culminating in proactive, collective, creative, existential and spiritual coping. The resource–congruence model posits that coping is effective to the extent that appropriate resources are available and congruent coping strategies are employed. The model emphasizes the importance of developing resources in anticipation of exigencies, and the need for acquiring cultural knowledge as to what coping strategies are suitable for a given stressor.
Catecholamine‐associated changes in the state of leukocyte adhesiveness/aggregation in the peripheral blood
Authors: Arber Nadir , Liberman Eliezer , Vered Yafa , Fink Gershon , Marom Edith , Sinai Yechezkel , Shiber Amir , Pinkhas Jack , Aronson Moshe , Berliner Shlomo
Published: June 2007

This article further explores the effects of stress on leukocyte adhesiveness. The concentration of plasma catecholamines as well as the LAA values were examined in 16 volunteers during a cold pressor test and in 15 volunteers following physical activity. A significant correlation between LAA values and plasma norepinephrine, dopamine and epinephrine was noted. In addition, experimental studies of anaesthetized dogs infused with dopamine and norepinephrine showed increased LAA values, and an insulin‐induced hypoglycaemic animal model for adrenergic stress indicated an inverse correlation between serum glucose concentrations and LAA values. Finally, in the presence of an MAO inhibitor, norepinephrine significantly increased the state of LAA in vitro. Thus, there exists an association between adrenergic stress and the appearance of sticky leukocytes in the circulating pool. We assume that, at least in part, this stickiness results from a direct effect of the catecholamines on the adhesive properties of the cells. Other factors might be related to the decreased endothelial adhesiveness towards the white blood cells as well as the concomitant effect of other mediators released during stress. This study also supports our notion that the state of LAA in the peripheral blood can serve as a useful stress marker.
The influence of psychic stress and brain death on the intestinal receptor for the cobalamin–intrinsic factor complex in rats
Authors: Dugué B. , Gräsbeck R.
Published: June 2007

This study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of psychic stress on receptor activity. The model studied was the intestinal receptor for the intrinsic factor — cobalamin complex of the rat. Several kinds of stress tended to decrease the activity of the receptor, but not quite significantly. Brain death caused significant decrease. Pregnancy and oestradiol treatment were included as positive controls as they significantly increased receptor activity.
Brain wave synchronizers: A review of their stress reduction effects and clinical studies assessed by questionnaire, galvanic skin resistance, pulse rate, saliva, and electroencephalograph
Authors: Morse Donald R.
Published: June 2007

Previously, stress induced sudden cardiac death (SCD) was discussed along with methods that might help prevent its occurrence. In this article, emphasis is on one aspect of prevention — a recently reintroduced technique to induce the relaxation response: photostimulation dark goggles that purportedly act as a brain wave synchronizer (BWS). Relative to BWS, first a review of the literature is given; then a summary of a recently completed clinical study is presented. Next, the results of an ongoing clinical study are given. Following this, case studies are presented of assessment by galvanic skin resistance, pulse rate, and electroencephalograph. Finally, future directions are discussed.