Chronotypes and Health: Biological and Social Implications | Chapter 6 | An Overview of Disease and Health Research Vol. 6

 

Chronotypes represent an individual’s natural preference for sleep and activity timing within the 24-hour day, governed by circadian rhythms and the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). This review explores how chronotypes categorised as morning, evening, and intermediate affect various dimensions of health and behaviours. It examines the biological underpinnings of chronotype, including hormonal and genetic mechanisms, and the tools used for its assessment, such as the Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire, Munich Chronotype Questionnaire, actigraphy, and sleep diaries. The study highlights significant associations between chronotype and physical health outcomes, including sleep quality, metabolic disorders, cardiovascular health, and immune function. In terms of mental health, evening chronotypes are particularly vulnerable to depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders, often due to misalignment between biological rhythms and societal demands. Furthermore, chronotype influences cognitive functioning, academic performance, and the impact of shift work, particularly among working adults. Understanding and aligning daily routines with an individual’s chronotype can lead to improved well-being, enhanced productivity, and reduced health risks. The findings underscore the importance of recognising chronotype differences to improve health outcomes, optimise daily functioning, and tailor interventions in educational, clinical, and occupational settings. Future research should continue to explore chronotype-based interventions and policies that respect biological diversity in human functioning.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Sambid Sunamajhi
Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751024, India.

 

Mantu Meher
Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751024, India.

 

Priyoneel Basu
Department of Zoology, School of Biological Sciences, Doctor Harisingh Gour Vishwavidyalaya (A Central University), Sagar - 470003, Madhya Pradesh, India.

 

Sweta Arora

Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751024, India.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/aodhr/v6/6234

The Role of Circadian Rhythm Disruptions in Maternal and Fetal Health: A Consideration of Their Potential Effects | Chapter 3 | Disease and Health: Research Developments Vol. 9

Circadian rhythms are the natural body clocks that regulate sleep, hormone release, and metabolism. During pregnancy, these rhythms are essential for the well-being of both the mother and the developing baby. However, modern lifestyles, characterized by shift work, excessive exposure to artificial light, and irregular sleep patterns, can disrupt these rhythms. Such disruptions are associated with various complications, including miscarriage, preterm birth, and low birth weight. Additionally, misalignment of circadian rhythms may negatively impact fetal brain development, increasing the risk of mental health issues and learning difficulties later in life. Melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep patterns, can play a protective role in reducing these risks. This review emphasizes the importance of maintaining stable circadian rhythms during pregnancy and suggests that lifestyle changes, along with melatonin therapy, may improve maternal and fetal health outcomes.

 

Author (s) Details

Mantu Meher
Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (Deemed to be University), Bhubaneswar, Odisha - 751024, India.

 

Sweta Arora
Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (Deemed to be University), Bhubaneswar, Odisha - 751024, India.

 

Priyoneel Basu
Department of Zoology, School of Biological Sciences, Doctor Harisingh Gour Vishwavidyalaya (A Central University), Sagar - 470003, Madhya Pradesh, India.

 

Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/dhrd/v9/5019

How a 12-Hour Shift System Affects the Quality of Performance in Law Enforcement: A Critical Review | Chapter 1 | Recent Research Advances in Arts and Social Studies Vol. 5

The aim of this study is to review existing data sources to identify what we know about the prevalence of 12-hour shifts in nursing and the impact on both staff and administration personnel in the police. Police work is a 24/7 operation and the issue of police scheduling is of utmost importance in achieving appropriate service area coverage at all times on all days. Specifically, this study aims to address the following questions: What is the prevalence of 12-hour shifts in policing? How much internal variation in shift length is there in policing? What impact does shift length have on the quality of policing and staff experience? To simulate a 12-hour shift rotation and measure the difference in performance if any. This study has reviewed three data sources on 12-hour shifts to explore the potential impact of 12- hour. Significant reductions in neurobehavioural performance during shift work and particularly night work have long been recognised. A 2022 survey of SAPS (South African Police Service) members found that 70% of respondents said they were overworked and 60% of respondents said they were underpaid. There are conflicting reports of the effects of 12-hour shifts on performance, alertness, and safety. Furthermore, research suggests that older shift workers have more sleep disruption and maladaptation to shift work. When this is combined with longer hours at work there may be considerable reductions in performance for older compared with younger workers. Henceforth, 12-hour shifts aren't suitable for everyone or in all circumstances as heavy lifting and other physical labour may make a job unsuitable owing to the risk of ergonomic injuries and exhaustion.

Author(s) Details:

John Motsamai Modise,
South African Police Service, South Africa.

Please see the link here: https://stm.bookpi.org/RRAASS-V5/article/view/13439