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Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are involved in producing a considerable number of fermented products consumed worldwide. Many of those LAB fermented foods are recognized as beneficial for human health due to probiotic LAB or their metabolites produced during food fermentation or after food digestion. In this review, we aim to gather and discuss available information on the health-related effects of LAB-fermented foods. In particular, we focused on the most widely consumed LAB-fermented foods such as yoghurt, kefir, cheese, and plant-based products such as sauerkrauts and kimchi.

Cancer stem cell (CSC) self-renewing and drug resistance cause treatment failure and tumor recurrence. Osteosarcoma is an aggressive bone tumor characterized by biological and molecular heterogeneity, possibly dependent on CSCs. CSC identification in osteosarcoma and their efficient targeting are still open questions. Spontaneous canine osteosarcoma shares clinical and biological features with the human tumors, representing a model for translational studies. We characterized three CSC-enriched canine osteosarcoma cultures. In serum-free conditions, these CSC cultures grow as anchorage-independent spheroids, show mesenchymal-like properties and in vivo tumorigenicity, recapitulating the heterogeneity of the original osteosarcoma. Osteosarcoma CSCs express stem-related factors (Sox2, Oct4, CD133) and chemokine receptors and ligands (CXCR4, CXCL12) involved in tumor proliferation and self-renewal. Standard drugs for osteosarcoma treatment (doxorubicin and cisplatin) affected CSC-enriched and parental primary cultures, showing different efficacy within tumors. Moreover, metformin, a type-2 diabetes drug, significantly inhibits osteosarcoma CSC viability, migration and self-renewal and, in co-treatment with doxorubicin and cisplatin, enhances drug cytotoxicity. Collectively, we demonstrate that canine osteosarcoma primary cultures contain CSCs exhibiting distinctive sensitivity to anticancer agents, as a reliable experimental model to assay drug efficacy. We also provide proof-of-principle of metformin efficacy, alone or in combination, as pharmacological strategy to target osteosarcoma CSCs.

The article presents and investigates different aspects of the use of photography in clinical psychology. It focuses on Judy Weiser’s PhotoTherapy Techniques and presents some data from an exploratory qualitative research.

Introduction: The aim of the study is to trace the personological profile of individuals involved in Sport Science and Sport Pedagogy fields (students and teachers) in order to identify their specific personality traits. Methods: A sample of 147 individuals (mean±SD age: 30±6.8 years, range23-53 years, 53.7% females and 46.3% males) following a Master's degree in Sport Science (36.7%) or enrolled in PE Teaching specialisation courses for Secondary School (TFA 42.9%; PAS 20.4%) at the Catholic University of Milan, were recruited for this study. The participants completed a socio-anagraphic questionnaire - evaluating education and experience both in school teaching and in sports context as fitness centers and sports teams - and the BFO (Big Five Observer), a questionnaire designed to investigate the main dimensions of personality (Energy/extraversion, Agreeableness, Conscientiousness, Emotional Stability, Mental Openness) through a list of 40 pairs of bipolar adjectives. Results: The sample – comparing to general population’s standardized values - shows high levels of emotional stability (T points mean 57; 58 in men) and mental openness (T higher points mean 56). Student’s t-Test (p<0,01) highlighted some gender differences: females presented values in conscientiousness and males in emotional stability. Instead, there were no significant differences between students and teachers about personological aspects. There was a positive correlation (Pearsons’ r 0,166 p<0,05) between age and energy/extraversion: this dimension growed with the years. Discussion: Personological aspects are often overlooked when studying the population of sport science and sport pedagogy, but it seems important to consider this information both to understand the reason of this career choice (also comparing in the future our study population with another sample, for example of human sciences) and to define appropriate training courses in sport education field. References: 1) Caprara, G.V., Barbara

Introduction: The purpose of this study is to explore the values orientation of individuals (students and teachers) involved in Sport Science and Sport Pedagogy fields. Methods: 147 individuals (mean ±SD age: 30±6.8 years, range 23-53 years, 79 females and 68 males) enrolled either in a Master's Degree in Sport Science (36.7%) or enrolled in PE Teaching specialisation courses for Secondary School (TFA 42.9%; PAS 20.4%) at the Catholic University of Milan were recruited for this study. The participants completed an ad-hoc prepared socio-anagraphic questionnaire and the PVQ (Portrait Values Questionnaire), a list of 40 item that describe the values of a general person and the subjects express how much they perceive themselves similar to the hypothetical person (in a Likert 6 points scale). The values orientation is organized in two bipolar dimensions: self-enhancement versus self-transcendence; conservatism versus open to change. Results: Regarding the bipolar values orientation, the sample showed higher values in self-transcendence (mean 4.77) and open to change (mean 4.39). Self-enhancement was higher in men (Student’s t-Test, p<0,01) and in young people (Pearsons’ r -.334, p<0,01); instead self-transcendence was greater in the teachers, who were also the eldest (positive correlation with age; r .223, p <0.01). Discussion: Individuals involved in physical activity seem to have a good social predisposition (prevalent values orientation of self-transcendence), especially those who chose a teaching career and are interested in other people’s wellbeing. References: 1) Schwartz, S.H. (2012), An Overview of the Schwartz Theory of Basic Values, Online Readings in Psychology and Culture, 2 (1) 2) Capanna, C., Vecchione, M., Schwartz, S.H. (2005), La misura dei valori. Un contributo alla validazione del Portrait Values Questionnaire su un campione italiano, Bollettino di Psicologia applicata, 246, 29-41.

An interpretative theory of mind enables young children to grasp that people fulfill varying intentions when making pictures. We tested the hypothesis that in middle childhood a unifunctional conception of artists' intention to produce a picture widens to include artists' intention to display their pictures to others. Children aged between 5 and 10 years viewed a brief video of an artist deliberately hiding her picture but her intention was thwarted when her picture was discovered and displayed. By 8 years of age children were almost unanimous that a picture-producer without an intention to show her work to others cannot be considered to be an artist. Further exploratory studies centered on aspects of picture-display involving normal public display as well as the contrary intentions of hiding an original picture and of deceitfully displaying a forgery. Interviews suggested that the concept of exhibition widened to take others' minds into account viewers' critical judgments and effects of forgeries on viewers' minds. The approach of interpolating probes of typical possibilities between atypical intentions generated evidence that in middle childhood the foundations are laid for a conception of communication between artists' minds and viewers' minds via pictorial display. The combination of hypothesis-testing and exploratory opening-up of the area generates a new testable hypothesis about how an increasingly mentalistic approach enables children to understand diverse possibilities in the pictorial domain.

Studies on pictorial preferences, artistic comprehension, aesthetic judgment and artistic behaviors often highlight the role of artistic familiarity, i.e. the socio-cultural dimension that mediates the relationship between the individual's features and the artworks. Literature shows how the origin of the artistic familiarity is linked to the stimulation coming from the family and the educational agencies. Particularly, school could promote its development by encouraging debate and discussion among peers. Over time the familiarity can be further fostered by some artistic behaviors (both production and fruition) and by the unintentional exposure to artistic stimuli. Familiarity, although recognized as fundamental, has never been systematically explored, but its recognition was relegated to a few questions, or was controlled through the partition of experimental subjects in "experts" or "non-experts". The aim of this work is to present a questionnaire designed to assess the artistic familiarity in all its aspects, in order to collect more reliable and comparable research data. The questionnaire, in its final version consisting of 44 items, was administered to 680 subjects and subjected to exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. It shows evidence for internal validity, external validity (through the correlation with a recognition test) and discriminant validity (differences in gender and age). Therefore we recommend its adoption in studies pertaining to the psychology of art.

The purpose of this preliminary survey was to explore the predispositions to physical activity (PA) in firefighters (F) from Lombardy (a region in the north of Italy), through the observation and analysis of their motor habits, both in service and out, linked with their socio-anagraphic characteristics and their BMI (Body Mass Index). Depending on the results obtained from the survey is proposed a plan of general actions to prevent injuries and protect F’s health.

Introduction Rehabilitation and full sport recovery after Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury and reconstructive surgery need perseverance and willpower. The difficulties normally experienced by patients after injury can be overcome with high motivation during the recovery period (1, 2). The aim of this study was to explore which motivational factors were linked to a good compliance of a rehabilitation path, in order to better understand how professionals could support patients in coping with difficulties. Methods Five male football players. (aged 13 to 38 years) ranging from recreational to competitive athletes, previously undergone ACL surgical reconstruction followed by knee rehabilitation were recruited for this qualitative study. We conducted semi-structured interviews, specifically focusing on: 1) relationship with football 2) the injury 3) the recovery process with particular attention to surgery and rehabilitation. The interviews were conducted by a psychologist in the Rehabilitation Centre Isokinetic of Milan, in the winter months of 2014-15. We were interested in understanding their decision to opt for surgery, what information they had, what were their expectations. Moreover, we wanted to know how the rehabilitation period was. We applied a semi projective tool (fill in a graphic line that represents their feeling in the main steps of the path, starting from before the injury and arriving to the present). Results The injury was a different experience for the patients, in some cases it was described as a trauma, in other cases they did not appreciate its severity. They were quite worried about undergoing rehabilitation post- the surgery but their will to return to play football was the main helping factor. Finally, the football players reported this experience (the injury and the care process) as a very formative moment of their life which also helped with their self-esteem. Conclusion The interviews clearly show the importance of understanding the pat

Introduction Rehabilitation and full sport recovery after Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury and reconstructive surgery need perseverance and willpower. The difficulties normally experienced by patients after injury can be overcome with high motivation during the recovery period (1, 2). Patient’s motivation is essential to achieve full sport recovery but needs full support of physiotherapists and of medical staff. It is thus is essential to assess and analyse psychological aspects as much as negative moments, fears, expectations occurring during rehabilitation, in order to better manage these and to customise motivational strategies for each patient. The aim of our study was to explore which motivational factors are linked to a good compliance of a rehabilitation path, in order to better understand how the staff could support patients in coping with difficulties (physical, emotional and psychological). Methods Five male football players (aged 13 to 38 years) ranging from recreational to competitive athletes, previously undergone ACL surgical reconstruction followed by knee rehabilitation were recruited for this explorative and qualitative study. We conducted semi-structured interviews, specifically focusing on: 1) relationship with football (story, past and future goals, personal needs that find an answer in sport activities); 2) the injury (how it happened, if it has been a psychological trauma, physical sensations, thoughts and emotions); 3) the recovery process with particular attention to surgery and rehabilitation. The interviews were conducted by a psychologist in Isokinetic Centre of Milan, in winter 2014-15. We were interested in understanding their decision to opt for surgery, what information they had, what were their expectations and if they encountered any unexpected event. The aim was not to measuring the incidence of different motivations supporting rehabilitation, but better understand which strategies the staff could use (customizing the interve

Surgical reconstruction treatment is suggested for football players after Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury to have more chances to return to pre-injury level. After surgery a functional rehabilitation is needed to ensure the desired level of recovery. The rehabilitation period can last several months and needs to continue till the full functional recovery, including on-field specific rehabilitation. In this long period the athlete needs to have psychological and motivational characteristics to get the best outcome. Psychological aspects are emphasized in recent literature as having a role that influences the final result. The purpose of our study is to explore the relationships between personality traits and indices of rehabilitation (both about the process and the outcome), in order to identify the personological variables that could represent protective and risk factors for rehabilitation and consequently to customize strategies based on personological traits. Among the Big five, the only personological trait correlated with the outcome of the treatment is Energy/extraversion that is negative correlated with Tegner scores both pre-injury and at one year follow-up (P<0.05). Energy extraversion is negative correlated with number of isokinetic tests (P<0.01) such as conscientiousness (P<0.01); Emotional Stability is negative correlated with the number of gym sessions (P<0.05); Mental Openness is positive correlated with the numbers of threshold test (P<0.05).

Background: loss of skeletal muscle mass (sarcopenia) is one of the most profound changes affecting the human body with ageing (Narici &Maffulli 2010) as it reduces strength, mobility and ability to dispose of circulating blood-sugar, eventually reducing quality of life of individuals. However there is paucity of data on the prevalence of sarcopenia in non-clinical populations and in particular how this affects mobility and quality of life. Aim: to investigate the association between sarcopenia and variables related to quality of life in a population of medically stable, community-dwelling elderly men and women. Method: 88 participants (40 male and 48 female), age range 64-83 years (mean 72.3 ± 4.6 years), body mass index (BMI) men: 26.5 ±3.7 and women: 24.7±3.5, were recruited for this study and underwent the following measurements: a) Body Composition analysis (by bioelectrical impedance, BIA), b) Gait speed, measured over 4 m, c) Quality of Life (QoL) measured using the Medical Outcomes Survey Short-form General Health Survey (SF- 36) translated and validated in Italian (Apolone and Mosconi, 1998) and, d) Physical Activity level, measured with the IPAQ-short version, (Mannocci et al. 2010). The data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and strength of monotonic relationship between paired data was tested with the Spearman correlation coefficient. Results: BIA Skeletal Muscle Index (SMI) was 34.3±3.2 for men and 30.8±4.9 for women; 45 participants (51%) were classified as sarcopenic and 43 (49%) as non-sarcopenic according to Janssen et al. (2002). SMI significantly correlated with musculoskeletal pain (Rho=-0.245; p<0,05), in particular sarcopenic people reported a more intensive musculoskeletal pain. Instead, no correlation between SMI and physical activity level was found. IPAQ categorical score was low 10% (n=9), moderate 42% (n=37), high 40% (n=16) for the men and low 13% (n=6), moderate 33% (n=16), high 54% (n=26) for the women and IPAQ score was positi

Aim: the aim of this study is to investigate the association between sarcopenia, muscle strength and variables related to quality of life in elderly enrolled in a fitness center. Method: 88 volunteers (40 male and 48 female) aged from 64 to 83 years (mean 72,3 ± 4,6 years), underwent the following measurements: body composition analysis (BMI and BIA), handgrip strength, quality of life level was measured using the Medical Outcomes Survey Short-form General Health Survey (SF- 36) translated and validated for Italy (Apolone and Mosconi, 1998) and physical activity level of the participants measured with the IPAQ-short version, (Manocci et al. 2010). The data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and the Spearman correlation coefficient. Results: mean BMI was 26,5 (±3,7) in men and 24,7 (±3,5) in women; Skeletal Muscle Index (SMI) was 34,3 (±3,2) in men and 30,8 (±4,9) in women; maximal handgrip was 40,6 (±6,9) kg in men and 24,1 (±4,4) kg in women. A total of 43 subjects were classified as non-sarcopenic and 45 as sarcopenic according Janssen et al. (2002). The prevalence of sarcopenia in our cohort was 75% in men and 31,25% in women. We found a correlation between SMI and pain (rho=-,245; p<0,05), in particular sarcopenic or pre-sarcopenic people reported a more intensive pain. Instead, in our sample there was no correlation between SMI and physical activity level. However, physical activity was positively correlated with social activities (rho=,301; p<0,01). Conclusion: in this population, low muscle mass was found to be related with an increased perception of pain but not with the level of physical activity. However this dimension was quite high, in fact people were enrolled in a fitness center, were people have a social activity. These two variables could represent protective factors for health. It is noteworthy that the increased perception of pain in the sarcopenic elderly does not result in an actual limitation of mobility, this may be due to a reduction of

Surgical reconstruction treatment is suggested for football players after Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury to have more chances to return to pre-injury level. After surgery a functional rehabilitation is needed to ensure the desired level of recovery. The rehabilitation period can last several months and needs to continue till the full functional recovery, including on-field specific rehabilitation. In this long period the athlete needs to have psychological and motivational characteristics to get the best outcome. Psychological aspects are emphasized in recent literature as having a role that influences the final result. The purpose of our study is to explore the relationships between personality traits and indices of rehabilitation (both about the process and the outcome), in order to identify the personological variables that could represent protective and risk factors for rehabilitation and consequently to customize strategies based on personological traits. Among the Big five, the only personological trait correlated with the outcome of the treatment is Energy/extraversion that is negative correlated with Tegner scores both pre-injury and at one year follow-up (P<0.05). Energy extraversion is negative correlated with number of isokinetic tests (P<0.01) such as conscientiousness (P<0.01); Emotional Stability is negative correlated with the number of gym sessions (P<0.05); Mental Openness is positive correlated with the numbers of threshold test (P<0.05).

Background: loss of skeletal muscle mass (sarcopenia) is one of the most profound changes affecting the human body with ageing (Narici &Maffulli 2010) as it reduces strength, mobility and ability to dispose of circulating blood-sugar, eventually reducing quality of life of individuals. However there is paucity of data on the prevalence of sarcopenia in non-clinical populations and in particular how this affects mobility and quality of life. Aim: to investigate the association between sarcopenia and variables related to quality of life in a population of medically stable, community-dwelling elderly men and women. Method: 88 participants (40 male and 48 female), age range 64-83 years (mean 72.3 ± 4.6 years), body mass index (BMI) men: 26.5 ±3.7 and women: 24.7±3.5, were recruited for this study and underwent the following measurements: a) Body Composition analysis (by bioelectrical impedance, BIA), b) Gait speed, measured over 4 m, c) Quality of Life (QoL) measured using the Medical Outcomes Survey Short-form General Health Survey (SF- 36) translated and validated in Italian (Apolone and Mosconi, 1998) and, d) Physical Activity level, measured with the IPAQ-short version, (Mannocci et al. 2010). The data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and strength of monotonic relationship between paired data was tested with the Spearman correlation coefficient. Results: BIA Skeletal Muscle Index (SMI) was 34.3±3.2 for men and 30.8±4.9 for women; 45 participants (51%) were classified as sarcopenic and 43 (49%) as non-sarcopenic according to Janssen et al. (2002). SMI significantly correlated with musculoskeletal pain (Rho=-0.245; p<0,05), in particular sarcopenic people reported a more intensive musculoskeletal pain. Instead, no correlation between SMI and physical activity level was found. IPAQ categorical score was low 10% (n=9), moderate 42% (n=37), high 40% (n=16) for the men and low 13% (n=6), moderate 33% (n=16), high 54% (n=26) for the women and IPAQ score was positi

Aim: the aim of this study is to investigate the association between sarcopenia, muscle strength and variables related to quality of life in elderly enrolled in a fitness center. Method: 88 volunteers (40 male and 48 female) aged from 64 to 83 years (mean 72,3 ± 4,6 years), underwent the following measurements: body composition analysis (BMI and BIA), handgrip strength, quality of life level was measured using the Medical Outcomes Survey Short-form General Health Survey (SF- 36) translated and validated for Italy (Apolone and Mosconi, 1998) and physical activity level of the participants measured with the IPAQ-short version, (Manocci et al. 2010). The data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and the Spearman correlation coefficient. Results: mean BMI was 26,5 (±3,7) in men and 24,7 (±3,5) in women; Skeletal Muscle Index (SMI) was 34,3 (±3,2) in men and 30,8 (±4,9) in women; maximal handgrip was 40,6 (±6,9) kg in men and 24,1 (±4,4) kg in women. A total of 43 subjects were classified as non-sarcopenic and 45 as sarcopenic according Janssen et al. (2002). The prevalence of sarcopenia in our cohort was 75% in men and 31,25% in women. We found a correlation between SMI and pain (rho=-,245; p<0,05), in particular sarcopenic or pre-sarcopenic people reported a more intensive pain. Instead, in our sample there was no correlation between SMI and physical activity level. However, physical activity was positively correlated with social activities (rho=,301; p<0,01). Conclusion: in this population, low muscle mass was found to be related with an increased perception of pain but not with the level of physical activity. However this dimension was quite high, in fact people were enrolled in a fitness center, were people have a social activity. These two variables could represent protective factors for health. It is noteworthy that the increased perception of pain in the sarcopenic elderly does not result in an actual limitation of mobility, this may be due to a reduction of

Rehabilitation following knee ligament surgery in football players and sport active people can last several months till full functional recovery. In this long period the athlete’s psychological and motivational attitude impacts on treatment outcome. This study explored the relationships between personality traits and indices of rehabilitation to identify the variables that could represent protective and risk factors of the rehabilitation result.

A wide body of research demonstrates that injury may have important psychological implications for competitive athletes including disruptions in mood state, a loss of positive social identity and uncertainties regarding the prospects of a return to pre-injury competitive levels. However, there is only limited knowledge about the influence of psychological factors on football injuries. The aim of this study was to examine how much an injury-prone personality profile and symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder can influence the risk of injury in adult football players (Petrie TA and Perna F., 2004). A self-administered questionnaire inquired about the anxiety disorders as well as personality traits. METHOD: a population of 100 football players was divided into 3 different age groups : 52 players aged 18-25 yrs, 32 players aged 26-35 yrs, 16 players aged 36-45 yrs. The method used for data gathering was based on: an epidemiological questionnaire, the Big Five Questionnaire (Caprara, et al, 1993) and the Stai -Trait Anxiety Inventory with subscales Y-1 and Y-2 (Spielberger, et al, 1968). The participants were asked to rate questions using these questionnaires-specific scales. Factor analysis of the data was performed on the questionnaires data and the matrixes of correlation were tested with Principal Components (Oblimin Rotation) using SPSS v 13.0 (Statistical Package for Social Sciences). Factor analysis simplified the variables, in order to have a limited numbers of factors, and the most significantes ones were interpreted. The Big Five broad factors (dimensions) of personality traits are: Extraversion -Agreeableness -Conscientiousness – Neuroticism-Openness to Experience The STAI Form Y measures anxiety in adults. It clearly differentiates between the temporary condition of “state anxiety” and the more general and long-standing quality of “trait anxiety”. RESULTS: Our football players were mainly midfielders (39) and defenders (31) Most of them are active for more

In recent years a new line of research studies confirmed the relationship between the main personality traits and the injury risk, especially among soccer players (Johnson and Ivarsson, 2013). In addict, findings from other studies, including soccer players as participant, suggest that psychological factors such as competitive stress, anxiety and daily hassles are associate with increase injury risk (Adie, Duda et al., 2010). The aim of this study was to trace an early personological profile of the male soccer players who are proner to injuries. METHOD: The participants of the study were 100 soccer male players (aged 18 to 45 years), 37 defenders, 39 midfielders, 24 strikers. Each player filled in a qualitative questionnaire about his personal characteristics and sport practice (trainings, matches, etc.) and any previous injury. The participants also completed the Big Five Questionnaire (Caprara et al, 1993), that studies the big personality traits (open-mindedness, conscientiousness, energy, agreeableness, neuroticism/emotional stability). RESULTS: The data were tested for correlations between personality traits and number of injuries (divided in specific types). Meniscal injuries were positively correlated with conscientiousness (rho = 0,209, p <0,05); tendinopathies were negative correlated with agreeableness (rho = - 0,223, p <0.05), emotional stability (rho = - 0,280, p <0,05) and open-mindedness (rho = - 0,200, p <0,05). Fractures were also negatively related with agreeableness (rho = - 0,255, p <0,05) and emotional stability (rho = - 0,376, p <0,01). Personality differences between subjects who reported injuries and those that did not were also explored. Players with past meniscal injuries were found to be also more conscientious (Mann-Whitney’s Test, p <0,05); players with past tendinopathies had lower values of agreeableness (T test, p <0.05), emotional stability and open-mindedness (T test, p <0.05); finally players with past microfractures (tiny breaks) h

In recent years a new line of research studies has confirmed the relationship between the main personality traits and the injury risk, especially among soccer players (Johnson and Ivarsson, 2013). In addition, findings from other studies, including soccer players as participant, suggest that intrinsic factors such as competitive stress and daily hassles, older age and previous accidents are associated with the increase of injury risk (Hägglund M, et al, 2013). However, hamstring injuries, Achilles and patellar tendinopathy remain significant issues in soccer. The aim of this study was to trace an early personological profile of the male soccer players who are proner to injuries. METHOD: The participants of the study were 98 soccer male players (aged 18 to 45 years), 35 defenders, 39 midfielders, 24 strikers. Each player filled in a qualitative questionnaire about his personal characteristics and sport practice (trainings, matches, etc.) and any previous injury. The participants also completed the Big Five Questionnaire (Caprara et al, 1993), that studies the big personality traits (extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, open-mindedness, neuroticism/emotional stability). RESULTS: The data were tested for correlations between personality traits and number of injuries (divided in specific types). Tendinopathies were negative correlated with agreeableness (rho = - 0,223, p <0.05), emotional stability (rho = - 0,280, p <0,05) and open-mindedness (rho = - 0,200, p <0,05); ); microfractures were also negatively related with agreeableness (rho = - 0,255, p <0,05) and emotional stability (rho = - 0,376, p <0,01). Meniscal injuries were positively correlated with conscientiousness (rho = 0,209, p <0,05) Personality differences between subjects who reported injuries and those that did not were also explored. Players with past meniscal injuries were found to be also more conscientious (Mann-Whitney’s Test, p <0,05); players with past tendinopathies had lower values of

Soccer is among the most played and most popular sport in the world. The average incidence of injuries per game is 2.7 and that an adult soccer player has at least one injury per year (Roi G.S., Della Villa S., 2011). Findings from recent studies suggest that psychological factors such as somatic trait anxiety and daily hassles are associated with increased risk of injury (Johnson and Ivarsson, 2013). The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between anxiety and injury in adult male soccer players. METHOD: The participants of the study were 100 amauteur male soccer players (aged 18 to 45). Each player filled in a qualitative questionnaire about his personal characteristics and sport practice (training, matches, etc.) and previous injuries (muscle, meniscal, injuries, tendinopathies, fractures, etc.). The participants also completed the Stai – State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (Spielberger, et al, 1968). This questionnaire investigates the anxiety level, both in a specific situation (before the match, in this study) and in everyday life. RESULTS: The data were tested for correlations between anxiety (state and trait) levels and number of injuries (divided in specific types). Tendinopathies positively correlated both with state (rho=0,243; p<0,05) and trait anxiety (rho=0,205; p<0,05). Also fractures positively correlated both with state (rho=0,295; p<0,01) and trait anxiety (rho=0,368; p<0,01). Differences in injuries between participants who reported high or low anxiety levels were also explored. Players with higher level of state anxiety (N=35) reported more tendinopathies (p<0,01) and fractures (p<0,01). Similarly, players with higher levels of trait anxiety (N=33) reported more tendinopathies (p<0,05) and fractures (p<0,01). DISCUSSION: The present results support the contention that anxiety is an important factor, significantly associated with injuries, such as tendinopathies and fractures. In addict, several studies have show

To compare psychological and behavioral characteristics between two groups of elderly people enrolled in a fitness center; one group was made by sarcopenic and the other by healthy according Janssen et al. (2002) 88 volunteers (40 male and 48 female) aged between 64 and 83 years (mean 72,3 ± 4,6 years) took part to this study. All participants underwent the following measurements: a) body composition analysis (BMI and BIA), b) handgrip strength, measured using a Jamar Plus dynamometer, c) quality of life level was measured using the Medical Outcomes Survey Short-form General Health Survey (SF- 36) translated and validated for Italy (Apolone and Mosconi, 1998) and, d) physical activity level of the participants measured with the IPAQ-short version, (Manocci et al. 2010)

To compare psychological and behavioral characteristics between two groups of elderly people enrolled in a fitness center; one group was made by sarcopenic and the other by healthy according Janssen et al. (2002) 88 volunteers (40 male and 48 female) aged between 64 and 83 years (mean 72,3 ± 4,6 years) took part to this study. All participants underwent the following measurements: a) body composition analysis (BMI and BIA), b) handgrip strength, measured using a Jamar Plus dynamometer, c) quality of life level was measured using the Medical Outcomes Survey Short-form General Health Survey (SF- 36) translated and validated for Italy (Apolone and Mosconi, 1998) and, d) physical activity level of the participants measured with the IPAQ-short version, (Manocci et al. 2010)

Soccer is among the most played and most popular sport in the world. The average incidence of injuries per game is 2.7 and that an adult soccer player has at least one injury per year (Roi G.S., Della Villa S., 2011). Findings from recent studies suggest that psychological factors such as somatic trait anxiety and daily hassles are associated with increased risk of injury (Johnson and Ivarsson, 2013). The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between anxiety and injury in adult male soccer players. METHOD: The participants of the study were 100 amauteur male soccer players (aged 18 to 45). Each player filled in a qualitative questionnaire about his personal characteristics and sport practice (training, matches, etc.) and previous injuries (muscle, meniscal, injuries, tendinopathies, fractures, etc.). The participants also completed the Stai – State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (Spielberger, et al, 1968). This questionnaire investigates the anxiety level, both in a specific situation (before the match, in this study) and in everyday life. RESULTS: The data were tested for correlations between anxiety (state and trait) levels and number of injuries (divided in specific types). Tendinopathies positively correlated both with state (rho=0,243; p<0,05) and trait anxiety (rho=0,205; p<0,05). Also fractures positively correlated both with state (rho=0,295; p<0,01) and trait anxiety (rho=0,368; p<0,01). Differences in injuries between participants who reported high or low anxiety levels were also explored. Players with higher level of state anxiety (N=35) reported more tendinopathies (p<0,01) and fractures (p<0,01). Similarly, players with higher levels of trait anxiety (N=33) reported more tendinopathies (p<0,05) and fractures (p<0,01). DISCUSSION: The present results support the contention that anxiety is an important factor, significantly associated with injuries, such as tendinopathies and fractures. In addict, several studies have show

In recent years a new line of research studies confirmed the relationship between the main personality traits and the injury risk, especially among soccer players (Johnson and Ivarsson, 2013). In addict, findings from other studies, including soccer players as participant, suggest that psychological factors such as competitive stress, anxiety and daily hassles are associate with increase injury risk (Adie, Duda et al., 2010). The aim of this study was to trace an early personological profile of the male soccer players who are proner to injuries. METHOD: The participants of the study were 100 soccer male players (aged 18 to 45 years), 37 defenders, 39 midfielders, 24 strikers. Each player filled in a qualitative questionnaire about his personal characteristics and sport practice (trainings, matches, etc.) and any previous injury. The participants also completed the Big Five Questionnaire (Caprara et al, 1993), that studies the big personality traits (open-mindedness, conscientiousness, energy, agreeableness, neuroticism/emotional stability). RESULTS: The data were tested for correlations between personality traits and number of injuries (divided in specific types). Meniscal injuries were positively correlated with conscientiousness (rho = 0,209, p <0,05); tendinopathies were negative correlated with agreeableness (rho = - 0,223, p <0.05), emotional stability (rho = - 0,280, p <0,05) and open-mindedness (rho = - 0,200, p <0,05). Fractures were also negatively related with agreeableness (rho = - 0,255, p <0,05) and emotional stability (rho = - 0,376, p <0,01). Personality differences between subjects who reported injuries and those that did not were also explored. Players with past meniscal injuries were found to be also more conscientious (Mann-Whitney’s Test, p <0,05); players with past tendinopathies had lower values of agreeableness (T test, p <0.05), emotional stability and open-mindedness (T test, p <0.05); finally players with past microfractures (tiny breaks) h

In recent years a new line of research studies has confirmed the relationship between the main personality traits and the injury risk, especially among soccer players (Johnson and Ivarsson, 2013). In addition, findings from other studies, including soccer players as participant, suggest that intrinsic factors such as competitive stress and daily hassles, older age and previous accidents are associated with the increase of injury risk (Hägglund M, et al, 2013). However, hamstring injuries, Achilles and patellar tendinopathy remain significant issues in soccer. The aim of this study was to trace an early personological profile of the male soccer players who are proner to injuries. METHOD: The participants of the study were 98 soccer male players (aged 18 to 45 years), 35 defenders, 39 midfielders, 24 strikers. Each player filled in a qualitative questionnaire about his personal characteristics and sport practice (trainings, matches, etc.) and any previous injury. The participants also completed the Big Five Questionnaire (Caprara et al, 1993), that studies the big personality traits (extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, open-mindedness, neuroticism/emotional stability). RESULTS: The data were tested for correlations between personality traits and number of injuries (divided in specific types). Tendinopathies were negative correlated with agreeableness (rho = - 0,223, p <0.05), emotional stability (rho = - 0,280, p <0,05) and open-mindedness (rho = - 0,200, p <0,05); ); microfractures were also negatively related with agreeableness (rho = - 0,255, p <0,05) and emotional stability (rho = - 0,376, p <0,01). Meniscal injuries were positively correlated with conscientiousness (rho = 0,209, p <0,05) Personality differences between subjects who reported injuries and those that did not were also explored. Players with past meniscal injuries were found to be also more conscientious (Mann-Whitney’s Test, p <0,05); players with past tendinopathies had lower values of

A wide body of research demonstrates that injury may have important psychological implications for competitive athletes including disruptions in mood state, a loss of positive social identity and uncertainties regarding the prospects of a return to pre-injury competitive levels. However, there is only limited knowledge about the influence of psychological factors on football injuries. The aim of this study was to examine how much an injury-prone personality profile and symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder can influence the risk of injury in adult football players (Petrie TA and Perna F., 2004). A self-administered questionnaire inquired about the anxiety disorders as well as personality traits. METHOD: a population of 100 football players was divided into 3 different age groups : 52 players aged 18-25 yrs, 32 players aged 26-35 yrs, 16 players aged 36-45 yrs. The method used for data gathering was based on: an epidemiological questionnaire, the Big Five Questionnaire (Caprara, et al, 1993) and the Stai -Trait Anxiety Inventory with subscales Y-1 and Y-2 (Spielberger, et al, 1968). The participants were asked to rate questions using these questionnaires-specific scales. Factor analysis of the data was performed on the questionnaires data and the matrixes of correlation were tested with Principal Components (Oblimin Rotation) using SPSS v 13.0 (Statistical Package for Social Sciences). Factor analysis simplified the variables, in order to have a limited numbers of factors, and the most significantes ones were interpreted. The Big Five broad factors (dimensions) of personality traits are: Extraversion -Agreeableness -Conscientiousness – Neuroticism-Openness to Experience The STAI Form Y measures anxiety in adults. It clearly differentiates between the temporary condition of “state anxiety” and the more general and long-standing quality of “trait anxiety”. RESULTS: Our football players were mainly midfielders (39) and defenders (31) Most of them are active for more

INTRODUCTION In recent years a new line of research studies confirmed the relationship between the main personality traits and the injury risk, especially among soccer players (Johnson and Ivarsson, 2013). In addict, findings from other studies, including soccer playersas participant, suggest that psychological factors such as competitive stress, anxiety and daily hassles are associate with increase injury risk (Adie, Duda et al., 2010). The aim of this study was to trace an early personological profile of the male soccer players who are prone to injuries. METHOD: The participants of the study were 100 soccer male players (aged 18 to 45 years), 37 defenders, 39 midfielders, 24 strikers. Each player filled in a qualitative questionnaire about his personal characteristics and sport practice (trainings, matches, etc.) and any previous injury. The participants also completed the Big Five Questionnaire (Caprara et al, 1993), that studies the big personality traits (open-mindedness, conscientiousness, energy, agreeableness, neuroticism/emotional stability). RESULTS: The data were tested for correlations between personality traits and number of injuries (divided in specific types). Meniscal injuries were positively correlated with conscientiousness (rho = 0,209, p <0,05); tendinopathies were negative correlated with agreeableness (rho = - 0,223, p <0.05), emotional stability (rho = - 0,280, p <0,05) and open-mindedness (rho = - 0,200, p <0,05). Fractures were also negatively related with agreeableness (rho = - 0,255, p <0,05) and emotional stability (rho = - 0,376, p <0,01). Personality differences between subjects who reported injuries and those that did not were also explored. Players with past meniscal injuries were found to be also more conscientious (Mann- Whitney’s Test, p <0,05); players with past tendinopathies had lower values of agreeableness (T test, p <0.05), emotional stability and open-mindedness (T test, p <0.05); finally players with past microfractures (ti

INTRODUCTION: Current literature demonstrates that injury may have important psychological implications for competitive athletes including disruptions in mood state, a loss of positive social identity and uncertainties regarding the prospects of a return to pre-injury competitive levels. However, there is limited knowledge on the influence of psychological factors on football injuries. The aim of this study was to examine how much an injury-prone personality profile and symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder can influence the risk of injury in adult football players. A self-administered questionnaire inquired about the anxiety disorders as well as personality traits. METHOD: A population of 100 football players was divided into 3 groups: 52 players aged 18-25 yrs, 32 players aged 26-35 yrs, 16 players aged 36- 45 yrs. Data gathering was based on an epidemiological questionnaire, the Big Five Questionnaire (Caprara, et al, 1993) and the Stai -Trait Anxiety Inventory with subscales Y-1 and Y-2 (Spielberger, et al, 1968). The participants were asked to rate questions using testspecific scales. Factor analysis of the data was performed and the matrixes of correlation were tested with Principal Components (Oblimin Rotation) using SPSS software (Statistical Package for Social Sciences). Factor analysis simplified the variables, and the most significant ones were interpreted. The Big Five broad factors (dimensions) of personality traits are: Extraversion -Agreeableness - Conscientiousness – Neuroticism-Openness to Experience The STAI Form Y measures anxiety and clearly differentiates between the temporary condition of “state anxiety” and the more general and long-standing quality of “trait anxiety”. RESULTS: Our football players were mainly midfielders (39) and defenders (31), with most active for > 10 yrs. Clinical examination revealed that most prevalent injuries were muscle and ankle strains (68%) and most injuried anatomical structures were ligaments followed by tend

Il presente studio vuole offrire un contributo alla validazione della versione italiana del Nuovo Test Estetico proposto da Lindauer nel 1985 adattato da Dogana et al. (1999; 2002). Il costrutto che misura è quello della sensibilità estetica, ovvero il tratto di personalità con le sue declinazioni cognitive, esperienziali e comportamentali che porta le persone esteticamente sensibili a mostrare un profondo interesse per la bellezza nelle sue varie forme e una vivida vita immaginativa. Il questionario adattato da Dogana et al. (1999; 2002) nella versione a 25 item era stato testato su un numero ridotto di adolescenti (16-20 anni). Somministrandolo a un campione di 1046 soggetti, dai 15 ai 50 anni equamente distribuiti per genere, è stato possibile testarne la struttura fattoriale attraverso un’analisi fattoriale confermativa. Lo strumento si è dimostrato valido e affidabile, inoltre ha permesso di valutare differenze di genere (la sensibilità estetica si conferma a maggior appannaggio femminile) ed età (questa dimensione personologica tende ad accentuarsi con la maturità).

Analisi critica della storia della terapia cognitiva

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Ciascuno di noi, posto davanti a un'opera d'arte è in grado di esprimere una preferenza, anche se non l'ha mai vista prima. Child (1965) sosteneva come in questo processo di valutazione fosse determinante il ruolo giocato dalla personalità, tuttavia l'autore aggiungeva anche che la conoscenza o l'esperienza in campo artistico potrebbero ridurre se non annullare questo effetto. Furham e Walker (2001) hanno invece sottolineato come la personalità potrebbe essere maggiormente legata allo sviluppo della familiarità artistica invece che determinare direttamente le preferenze pittoriche. Il presente lavoro si pone dunque l'obiettivo di studiare la familiarità artistica in veste di mediatore tra le variabili di personalità e le preferenze pittoriche. I risultati mettono in luce come questa mediazione avviene per la ricerca di brivido e avventura, il bisogno di chiusura cognitiva e la sensibilità estetica (fattori di bellezza classica e rapimento estatico). Sempre attraverso questi modelli di mediazione, le preferenze pittoriche sono state analizzate considerando le principali caratteristiche dello stimolo: lo stile pittorico, il soggetto rappresentato e il livello di complessità. in particolare lo stile e il soggetto hanno messo in luce interessanti differenze. Si auspicano futuri studi che tengano conto degli effetti di interazione sia tra le variabili di personalità, sia tra le caratteristiche delle opere pittoriche., Everyone could say if he likes or not a work of art, even if he never saw it before. Child (1965) stressed the importance of the personality traits for this process of evaluation, however he also suggested that personality variables become less important as knowledge of art increases. Furham e Walker (2001) proposed that personality variables predict exposure to art (galleries visited, art purchased, art studied) which in part predicts familiarity which is the most direct predictor of art preferences. The aim of this study is testing the role of artistic familiarity as mediator between personality traits (predictors) and pictorial preferences (outcome). Results show mediation for thrill and adventure seeking, need for cognitive closure and aesthetic sensitivity. Pictorial preferences are also studied in mediation models considering the characteristics of the works of art: style, represented subject and simplicity/complexity. In particular, the style and the represented subject show significant differences. Future research is needed, particularly on the study of the interaction between both personality variables and pictorial characteristics.