We studied the possibility of inducing a bronchospasm by a cold stimulus (0°C) on the chest wall of normal subjects and those with bronchial lability. The stimulus is applied on areas in metameric connection with the bronchial tree. Modifications of MEF₂₅, MEF₅₀ and FEV_1.0 before and after stimulation are surveyed. Positive bronchospasm indexes are pointed out in a large number of subjects with bronchial lability, while no obstructive bronchial response is found in normal subjects. The cold stimulus on the chest wall can therefore be considered as an aspecific stimulus producing bronchospasm. Some physiopathogenetic interpretations are suggested.

BackgroundYoga is a psychophysical, spiritual science of holistic living, aiming towards body and mind development; it can influence well-being, cognitive processes, personality (Gunas), psychophysiological parameters, and human health. Since it has been observed that Morningness-Eveningness disposition is associated with personality, and that personality can characterize people practicing Yoga, in this exploratory study we posited that Morningness-Eveningness might be associated with personality in Yoga trainees. Since Yoga can have influences over cognitive perspectives, and since it has been observed that Morningness-Eveningness disposition can associate with cognitive processes, we investigated a sample of Yoga trainees with reference to relationship with styles of learning and thinking (relevant aspects of cognitive functioning) and also with Morningness-Eveningness disposition.Material/MethodWe tested 184 Yoga trainees using the following questionnaires: Styles of Learning and Thinking (Torrance), Big Five Questionnaire (Caprara, Barbaranelli, Borgogni), and reduced Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (Natale).ResultsWe found that Morning types score significantly higher than Evening types on Conscientiousness, Friendliness, Scrupulousness, Openness to Culture, emotional Stability, emotion Control, they score higher than intermediate types on Conscientiousness, Friendliness, Scrupulousness. Moreover, data showed that the high majority of subjects, also with reference to Morningness-Eveningness disposition, have right-sided styles of learning and thinking, pointing out a tendency towards right-sided cognitive precessing in the whole sample. Personality traits of the Yoga trainees were also investigated.ConclusionsData are discussed with reference to existing literature, psychological and neuroscientific perspectives are suggested, previous studies about Yoga published on Medical Science Monitor are also considered.