bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic Association between ACE2 (rs2285666 and rs2074192) and TMPRSS2 (rs12329760 and rs2070788) Polymorphisms with Post-COVID Symptoms in Previously Hospitalized COVID-19 Survivors
Authors: Fernández-de-las-Peñas César , Arendt-Nielsen Lars , Díaz-Gil Gema , Gómez-Esquer Francisco , Gil-Crujera Antonio , Gómez-Sánchez Stella M. , Ambite-Quesada Silvia , Palomar-Gallego María A. , Pellicer-Valero Oscar J. , Giordano Rocco
Published: October 2022

The aim of the study was to identify the association between four selected COVID-19 polymorphisms of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 receptors genes with the presence of long-COVID symptomatology in COVID-19 survivors. These genes were selected as they associate with the entry of the SARS-CoV-2 virus into the cells, so polymorphisms could be important for the prognoses of long-COVID symptoms. Two hundred and ninety-three (n = 293, 49.5% female, mean age: 55.6 ± 12.9 years) individuals who had been previously hospitalized due to COVID-19 were included. Three potential genotypes of the following single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were obtained from non-stimulated saliva samples of participants: ACE2 (rs2285666), ACE2 (rs2074192), TMPRSS2 (rs12329760), TMPRSS2 (rs2070788). Participants were asked to self-report the presence of any post-COVID defined as a symptom that started no later than one month after SARS-CoV-2 acute infection and whether the symptom persisted at the time of the study. At the time of the study (mean: 17.8, SD: 5.2 months after hospital discharge), 87.7% patients reported at least one symptom. Fatigue (62.8%), pain (39.9%) or memory loss (32.1%) were the most prevalent post-COVID symptoms. Overall, no differences in long-COVID symptoms were dependent on ACE2 rs2285666, ACE2 rs2074192, TMPRSS2 rs12329760, or TMPRSS2 rs2070788 genotypes. The four SNPs assessed, albeit previously associated with COVID-19 severity, do not predispose for developing long-COVID symptoms in people who were previously hospitalized due to COVID-19 during the first wave of the pandemic.
Assessing the Coastal Vulnerability by Combining Field Surveys and the Analytical Potential of CoastSat in a Highly Impacted Tourist Destination
Authors: Valderrama-Landeros Luis , Flores-Verdugo Francisco , Flores-de-Santiago Francisco
Published: October 2022

Tropical sandy beaches provide essential ecosystem services and support many local economies. In recent times, however, there has been a massive infrastructure expansion in popular tourist destinations worldwide. To investigate the shoreline variability at a popular tourist destination in Mexico, we used the novel semi-automatic CoastSat program (1980 to 2020) and the climate dataset ERA5 (wave energy and direction). We also measured the beach cross-shore distance and the foredune height with topographic surveys. The results indicate that the section of real estate seafront infrastructure in the study site presents a considerable shoreline erosion due to the fragmentation between the foredune ridge and the beach berm, based on the in situ transects. Moreover, foredune corridors with cross-shore distances of up to 70 to 90 m and dune heights of 8 m, can be seen in the short unobstructed passages between buildings. In the south section we found the coastline in a much more stable condition because this area has not had coastal infrastructures, as of yet. For the most part, the remote sensing analysis indicates constant erosion since 1990 in the real estate section (mainly seafront hotels) and an overall accretion pattern at the unobstructed beach-dune locations. This study demonstrates the catastrophic consequences of beach fragmentation due to unplanned real estate developments, by combining in situ surveys and a freely available big-data approach (CoastSat).
Should Patients with Waldenström Macroglobulinemia Receive a BTK Inhibitor as Frontline Therapy?
Authors: Deodato Marina , Frustaci Anna Maria , Zamprogna Giulia , Cotilli Giulia , Cairoli Roberto , Tedeschi Alessandra
Published: October 2022

Waldenström Macroglobulinemia (WM) is a rare indolent lymphoma with heterogeneous clinical presentation. As there are no randomised trials suggesting the best treatment option in treatment-naive patients, guidelines suggest either rituximab-combining regimens or BTK-inhibitors (BTKi) as feasible alternatives. Several factors play in the decision-making process: patients’ age and fitness, disease characteristics and genotype. Chemoimmunotherapy (CIT) represents a fixed-duration, less expensive and effective option, able to achieve prolonged time-to-next treatment even in patients with unfavourable genotypes. Immunosuppression and treatment-related second cancers may represent serious concerns. Proteasome-inhibitor-based regimens are effective with rapid disease control, although bortezomib-related neuropathy discourages the choice of these agents and treatment schedules may not be easily manageable in the elderly. BTKi have demonstrated high rates of response and prolonged survival together with the convenience of an oral administration and limited cytopenias. However, outcomes are impacted by genotype and some concerns remain, in particular the continuous drug exposure that may result in extra-haematological complications and drug resistance. Although next-generation BTKi have improved treatment tolerance, the question whether BTKi should be offered as frontline therapy to every patient is still debated. Giving fixed-duration schedule, prolonged time-to-next treatment and outcomes independent of genotype, CIT is still our preferred choice in WM. However, BTKi remain a valuable option in frail patients unsuitable for CIT.
Substance Use in Sexual Relationships: Association with Sexual Assertiveness and Sexual Satisfaction
Authors: López de Juan Abad Paula , Arcos-Romero Ana Isabel
Published: October 2022

Background: The main objective was to examine sexual assertiveness and sexual satisfaction in people who have sex under the influence of alcohol and drugs, considering the type of substance consumed, the frequency of consumption, gender, and sexual orientation. Methods: The sample consisted of 274 adults who had sexual relationships consuming substances. A questionnaire composed of sociodemographic, sexual history and substance use items, the Sexual Assertiveness Scale and the Global Measure of Sexual Satisfaction were administered. Results: Gender differences were found in sexual assertiveness and in the frequency of substance use. Women reported greater sexual assertiveness and greater alcohol consumption. Men reported greater consumption of different types of substances. Furthermore, bisexual participants showed greater assertiveness and STI prevention. Homosexual participants reported a higher frequency of the consumption of poppers, mephedrone, and GBL/GHB. Sexual assertiveness was associated with sexual satisfaction. Greater consumption of some types of substances was related to sexual assertiveness, STI prevention, and sexual satisfaction. Conclusions: The association found between sexual assertiveness and sexual satisfaction in a specific context of substance use in sexual relationships corroborates the important role that these psychosexual variables have in sexual health, in view of the frequency and type of drug consumed, gender, and sexual orientation.
SARS-CoV-2 Contamination of Ambulance Surfaces and Effectiveness of Routine Decontamination Procedure: A Classic Hygiene Lesson for A Novel Pathogen
Authors: Baldovin Tatjana , Amoruso Irene , Paganini Matteo , Marcato Camilla , Boscolo Cegion Riccardo , Favaro Andrea , Bertoncello Chiara , Fonzo Marco , Baldo Vincenzo
Published: October 2022

The efficacy of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the decontamination of ambulances against SARS-CoV-2 has been debated. In Italy, the differential use of ambulances was implemented by regional health authorities, with selected vehicles being used exclusively for transporting COVID-19 patients. We investigated the presence of SARS-CoV-2 on high-touch surfaces in ambulances to assess contamination dynamics and the effectiveness of decontamination SOPs. Four high-touch surfaces were sampled before and after decontamination (T0; T1). The gloves of the EMS crew chief were also sampled. RNA extraction was performed with a commercial kit, followed by RT-qPCR molecular detection of SARS-CoV-2. A total of 11 transports were considered. Seven transports had at least one positive sample; all were related to a COVID-19 patient. Three of the negative transports had dealt with COVID-19 case, and one had dealt with a COVID-19-negative patient. One door handle and one oxygen knob were positive at T0, with negative T1 swabs. The monitors were positive in 5 transports at T0, yet they were never positive at T1. Three stretcher handles tested positive at T0, and two of them also at T1, possibly having bypassed decontamination during personnel dismounting. Gloves were contaminated in five transports, in which 1 to 3 additional samples (monitor, knob, stretcher) resulted as positive. Overall, the efficacy of decontamination SOPs was confirmed under the unprecedented conditions of the COVID-19 emergency. However, the importance of correct hand-hygiene and glove-disposal should be further emphasized through the dedicated training of EMS personnel.
Clinical Efficacy of Treatment of Endodontic-Periodontal Lesions: A Systematic Scoping Review of Experimental Studies
Authors: Ardila Carlos M. , Vivares-Builes Annie Marcela
Published: October 2022

Background: In this review, we evaluated the clinical efficacy of interventions used for the treatment of endo-perio lesions (EPL). Methods: A systematic scoping review of clinical trials was developed. Results: Seven clinical trials were studied. In at least one study group of six of the seven evaluated trials, endodontic and periodontal treatments were performed simultaneously. All trials showed improvement in probing depth in the studied groups; nevertheless, the experimental groups of five studies demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in this parameter. An increase in clinical attachment level was also reported (p < 0.05). Most trials reported an increase in the filling of the bone defect following therapy (p < 0.05). Mechanical periodontal therapy implemented simultaneously with endodontic therapy demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of concurrent EPL without communication. Endodontic treatment and immediate periodontal surgery did not affect the result of the management of combined EPL with apical communication. The use of diode laser, the management of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) and titanium-prepared PRF, and the implementation of bone grafts plus endodontic treatment with mineral-trioxide or gutta-percha seems to be an adequate strategy in patients with EPL. Conclusions: The treatment of EPL using simultaneous endodontic and periodontal therapies seems to be an acceptable treatment alternative.
The Associations between Upper and Lower Body Muscle Strength and Diabetes among Midlife Women
Authors: Wong Beverly W. X. , Thu Win Pa Pa , Chan Yiong Huak , Kramer Michael S. , Logan Susan , Cauley Jane A. , Yong Eu-Leong
Published: October 2022

We hypothesized that a combined index of upper and lower body muscle strength would be more strongly associated with diabetes than either measure alone. Women recruited into the Integrated Women’s Health Program had their handgrip strength (HGS) measured using a dynamometer and underwent a timed 5-repetition chair stand (RCS) test. HGS < 18 kg and RCS performance ≥ 12 s assessed upper and lower body strength, respectively, both individually and combined in a muscle strength index (MSI). Diabetes was defined as physician-diagnosed, use of anti-diabetic medication, or fasting blood glucose ≥ 7.0 mmol/L. Binary logistic regression examined the associations between muscle strength and diabetes. Of 1170 midlife women, 12.1% had diabetes. A low HGS was independently associated with diabetes (aOR: 1.59, 95% CI: 1.03, 2.44). Prolonged RCS was also associated with diabetes (aOR: 1.59, 95% CI: 1.09, 2.30), but this was not independent of visceral adiposity and muscle mass. A poor MSI had higher odds of diabetes (aOR: 2.37, 95% CI: 1.40, 4.03), independent of age, ethnicity, education level, menopausal status, smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity, height, visceral adiposity, and muscle mass. The combination of both upper and lower body muscle strength into a composite MSI was more strongly associated with diabetes than either weak HGS or prolonged RCS alone in midlife women.
The Difficulties in Emotional Regulation among a Cohort of Females with Lipedema
Authors: Al-Wardat Mohammad , Clarke Chantelle , Alwardat Nuha , Kassab Manal , Salimei Chiara , Gualtieri Paola , Marchetti Marco , Best Talitha , Di Renzo Laura
Published: October 2022

Background: Lipedema is a chronic and progressive adipose tissue disorder that causes significant morbidity and negatively influences mental health and quality of life, and increases the risk of depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. One construct of relevance to better understanding psychological disorders is emotion regulation (ER). Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the difficulties in ER among lipedema patients compared to healthy people without lipedema. Methods: This cross-sectional study assessed differences in ER and anxiety between two groups: 26 female patients with lipedema and 26 sex- and age-matched healthy controls. The Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS) assessed emotional regulation across six dimensions: Impulse control, goal-directed behavior, awareness, clarity, non-acceptance, and strategies. Anxiety was assessed by the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM-A). ANOVA assessed differences in measures between lipedema and healthy control groups. Results: Lipedema patients presented with significantly more difficulties in ER and a higher level of anxiety than those without lipedema. Specifically, the lipedema group showed higher and significant differences in total DERS and anxiety scores and all DERS subscales scores compared to those without lipedema. Conclusions: Lipedema patients showed significant difficulties with ER, and were associated with anxiety symptoms, indicating that ER difficulties may play a role in developing emotional disorders, such as anxiety, for patients with lipedema. The health care provider should pay more attention to ER difficulties and psychological status among lipedema patients.
What Is Solastalgia and How Is It Measured? SOS, a Validated Scale in Population Exposed to Drought and Forest Fires
Authors: Cáceres Cristian , Leiva-Bianchi Marcelo , Serrano Carlos , Ormazábal Yony , Mena Carlos , Cantillana Juan Carlos
Published: October 2022

Solastalgia is a recent concept that refers to disruptive psychological responses in people exposed to environmental degradation. The aim of this study was to determine the number of dimensions solastalgia has using a sample of people exposed to the effects of climate change in the coastal dry land of Maule region, Chile. In order to achieve this, a Scale Of Solastalgia (SOS) was designed and then validated, by means of applying it to 223 inhabitants at the municipalities of Pencahue (n = 105) and Curepto (n = 118), who were also evaluated by the Short Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Rating Interview (SPRINT-E). Using robust validation methods (Parallel factor analysis and Omega), two dimensions were obtained for solastalgia: solace and algia. Both correlate with the SPRINT-E scale (r = 0.150, p < 0.01 and r = 0.359, p < 0.01, respectively) and have 58% sensitivity and 67% specificity to detect cases of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Like PTSD, solastalgia is related to psychopathologies expected after disasters and also presents a spatial pattern where the concentration of positive cases occurs in places of greater exposure to environmental change or degradation.
Maple Syrup: Chemical Analysis and Nutritional Profile, Health Impacts, Safety and Quality Control, and Food Industry Applications
Authors: Saraiva Ariana , Carrascosa Conrado , Ramos Fernando , Raheem Dele , Lopes Maria , Raposo António
Published: October 2022

Maple syrup is a delicacy prepared by boiling the sap taken from numerous Acer species, primarily sugar maple trees. Compared to other natural sweeteners, maple syrup is believed to be preferable to refined sugar for its high concentration of phenolic compounds and mineral content. The presence of organic acids (malic acid), amino acids and relevant amounts of minerals, such as potassium, calcium, zinc and manganese, make maple syrup unique. Given the growing demand for naturally derived sweeteners over the past decade, this review paper deals with and discusses in detail the most important aspects of chemical maple syrup analyses, with a particular emphasis on the advantages and disadvantages of the different analytical approaches. A successful utilization on the application of maple syrup in the food industry, will rely on a better understanding of its safety, quality control, nutritional profile, and health impacts, including its sustainability issues.
Safety Management and Safety Performance Nexus: Role of Safety Consciousness, Safety Climate, and Responsible Leadership
Authors: Saleem Farida , Malik Muhammad Imran
Published: October 2022

Drawing from social system theory, social identity theory, and social exchange theory, this study examines how safety management practices are linked with employee safety performance through safety consciousness and safety climate. Furthermore, responsible leadership is introduced as a boundary condition in the safety consciousness—safety performance and safety climate—safety performance relationships. Data were collected from employees belonging to pharmaceutical firms located in different industrial zones of Lahore, Pakistan. The support is found for full mediation of safety consciousness and safety climate for the safety management and safety performance relationships. Responsible leadership moderates the safety consciousness—safety performance and safety climate—safety performance relationships so that when the safety climate is weak or the safety consciousness is low, a high level of responsible leadership enhances safety performance.
Perceived Crisis Management and Post-Traumatic Growth among Chinese Preschool Teachers during COVID-19: Risk Perception as a Moderator
Authors: Hong Xiumin , Liu Youpeng , Zhang Mingzhu
Published: October 2022

This study explored post-traumatic growth among preschool teachers during COVID-19 and investigated associations among post-traumatic growth, perceived crisis management, and risk perception. The participants were 2921 Chinese preschool teachers (96.5% women). Teachers’ reports of post-traumatic growth, perceived crisis management, and risk perception were analyzed by multivariate techniques. The results revealed that preschool teachers’ post-traumatic growth was at an intermediate level, and there was no significant difference in post-traumatic growth by risk level area. Post-traumatic growth was significantly related to risk perception and perceived crisis management, and risk perception appeared to moderate the relationship between perceived crisis management and post-traumatic growth. Our findings highlight the importance of considering the roles of perceived crisis management and risk perception in preschool teachers’ post-traumatic growth. Related suggestions for preschool teachers’ mental health are discussed.
Reliability and Validity of the Korean Version of the High-Performance Work System Scale (HPWS-K)
Authors: Kim Hyesun , Seo Kawoun , Jang Taejeong
Published: October 2022

The application of the concept of high-performance work system (HPWS) to nurses can improve the quality of nursing care by enhancing nurse supply and patient safety culture. This study aimed to test the validity and reliability of the Korean version of the HPWS Scale (HPWS-K) and verify its adequacy for measuring HPWS within the context of nurses working in Korean hospitals. Data analyses were performed by using data from 214 nurses engaged in patient care in Korean general hospitals with over 300 beds, with SPSS version 22.0 and AMOS version 26.0 software. The data collected were translated into Korean and the adapted Korean version was back-translated into English by bilingual nursing professionals. The content validity of the HPWS-K was tested by administering it to 10 participants, and the collected data underwent reliability and validity testing. In the exploratory factor analysis, the total variance explained was 49.97%, and the instrument’s reliability (Cronbach’s α) was 0.87. A one-factor confirmatory factor analysis showed an acceptable model fit. The results confirmed the feasibility of using the HPWS-K with Korean nurses, and its application in this context is expected to contribute to creating a safe and effective healthcare environment in Korea.
DASHES Protocol: Development and Feasibility Testing of a Tailored Community Programme to Support People in Recovery from Problematic Alcohol and Drug Use to Cut Down or Stop Smoking Using Co-Creation
Authors: Dobbie Fiona , Miller Martine , Kam Man Hei Marcus , McKenna Aoife , Glen Claire , McCallum Alison
Published: October 2022

Background: Despite the continued global decline in adult tobacco prevalence, rates continue to be significantly higher in groups with problematic drug or alcohol use (PDA). It is estimated that people with alcohol, drug or mental health problems account for approximately half of all smoking deaths. In the UK, there are free stop smoking services for the general population. However, these services have been criticized as unsuitable for people in recovery from PDA due to their design, time-limited support, strict requirement for smoking abstinence and lack of consideration of harm reduction approaches. This has led to calls for alternative approaches to support this marginalized and underserved group. This research study seeks to respond to this call by co-creating and feasibility testing a tailored, trauma-informed service specifically for people seeking help for PDA, who are not in immediate crisis, and who may also want to reduce or stop their tobacco smoking. Methods: The mixed-method study design has two parts. The development study (part one) will use participatory peer research methods to work with the target client group and key stakeholders involved in service delivery, commissioning, and policy to design the service (intervention). The feasibility study (part two) will test the delivery of the intervention protocol and capture data that will enable the assessment of whether progression to a future pilot randomized control trial is merited. Conclusions: The outcome of this study will be a theoretically informed, co-created intervention with the potential to improve population health by supporting people with problematic drug or alcohol use to cut down or stop tobacco smoking.
COVID-19—Infections and Immunization of Inmates in Penitentiary Institutions in Poland in 2021
Authors: Augustynowicz Anna , Bachurska Beata , Wójcik Michał , Borowska Mariola , Czerw Aleksandra , Opolski Janusz , Słabicka Karolina , Pinkas Jarosław
Published: October 2022

Susceptibility to infection and the risk of a severe course of the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 among inmates are greater than in the general population. Therefore, it is extremely important to control infections in penitentiary institutions and to vaccinate as many inmates as possible. The objectives of the study are to present the number and percentage of inmates quarantined, infected with the SARS CoV-2 virus, and vaccinated against COVID-19 in 2021, and to describe the rules and organization of immunization. The information presented in the study was obtained from the Ministry of Justice in the form of access to public information. In 2021, 2065 cases of SARS CoV-2 infection were detected among inmates, and 5707 people were quarantined. The waves of infections among inmates in Poland ran parallel to those in the general population. Immunization of inmates began at the turn of February and March 2021. It took place in accordance with the provisions of the National COVID-19 Immunization Program. The program ensured equality of the inmates’ population with the group to which individual inmates belong in the community. In 2021, nearly half of the inmates were covered by the full vaccination course. Inmates were vaccinated immediately after the vaccines were made available. There have been cases of refusals among inmates. There are no data that could determine the magnitude of the phenomenon and its exact causes.
Attitudes of Polish Doctors towards Brain Death
Authors: Leśniewski Krzysztof , Antoszewska Beata , Baczewska Bożena
Published: October 2022

Brain death has been one of the most controversial issues in the medical and bioethical debate globally for more than fifty years. There is no unanimous acceptance of the understanding of brain death, and a single set of neurological criteria for the determination of human death that is accepted worldwide has yet to be established. Physicians from different specialisations understand brain death differently. Therefore, research is needed to understand and typologically classify their points of views as regards brain death. In Poland, this research is particularly important, as the views of anaesthesiologists, neurologists and transplantologists, who fully accept and support brain death as being synonymous with biological human death, have dominated the scholarly debate on this issue. This study presents the opinions of Polish physicians with various medical specialisations in relation to brain death. Free-form interviews with 28 doctors were conducted. Participants expressed their personal views on brain death, while exhibiting at the same time various emotions. We discuss our findings in relation to the existing framework of knowledge and debate concerning brain death and the Polish legal regulation in force when the interviews were carried out. Although participants had different beliefs with regard to brain death, the research team managed to classify their statements and opinions into five attitudes, taking into account what for them were the most important, namely: the escapist–protective attitude, the scientistic–medical attitude, the accepting–critical attitude, the ignorant–agnostic attitude, and the ambiguous attitude.
Preventing Patient Falls Overnight Using Video Monitoring: A Clinical Evaluation
Authors: Woltsche Rebecca , Mullan Leanne , Wynter Karen , Rasmussen Bodil
Published: October 2022

Inpatient falls are devastating for patients and their families and an ongoing problem for healthcare providers worldwide. Inpatient falls overnight are particularly difficult to predict and prevent. The aim of this cohort study was to evaluate effectiveness of overnight portable video monitoring as an adjunct falls prevention strategy for high falls risk patients in inpatient clinical units. Over three months, three clinical inpatient wards were provided with baby monitor equipment to facilitate portable video monitoring. Portable video monitoring registers were completed nightly and nursing staff were invited to complete surveys (n = 31) to assess their experiences of using portable video monitoring. A total of 494 episodes of portable video monitoring were recorded over the three-month period, with clinical areas reporting a total of four inpatient falls from monitoring participants (0.8% of total portable video monitoring episodes). Overall, there was a statistically significant reduction in total inpatient falls overnight on the target wards. Surveyed nursing staff reported feeling better equipped to prevent falls and indicated they would like to continue using portable monitoring as a falls prevention strategy. This study provides evidence to support the use of portable video monitoring as an effective falls prevention strategy in the hospital environment.
The Lixiviation of Metals When Amending Agricultural Soil of the Mediterranean Basin with Biosolids: Trials in Leaching Columns
Authors: Jordán Manuel M. , Almendro-Candel María Belén , García-Sánchez Ernesto , Navarro-Pedreño José
Published: October 2022

An appropriate handling and use of urban and agricultural biosolids on soils are the best means to protect them from erosion, prevent the loss of nutrients due to runoff and washing, and preserve and restore soil productivity. Heavy metal concentrations in biosolids are one of the decisive factors when using this type of waste on soil, due to potentially being harmful to crops and reaching the human food chain. There is a clear need to study the incidence of these metals in agricultural practices in Mediterranean soils. Research for this article was performed as a controlled study using leaching columns. Three treatments were performed by applying different amounts of biosolids (T50: 50,000 kg ha−1, T90: 90,000 kg ha−1, T130: 130,000 kg ha−1), as well as a blank test or control treatment (T0). The presence of macronutrients (K, Na, Ca and Mg), micronutrients (Fe, Cu, Mn and Zn) and three contaminating heavy metals (Cr, Cd and Ni) in lixiviated water was analyzed. Relevant amounts of metals in the wash water were not found. This indicates that, under the watering conditions used, the contaminants and micronutrients analyzed are not a relevant source of water contamination on a common calcareous soil of the Mediterranean Basin.
The Impact of Metal Nanoparticles on Female Reproductive System: Risks and Opportunities
Authors: Aloisi Massimo , Rossi Gianna , Colafarina Sabrina , Guido Maurizio , Cecconi Sandra , Poma Anna M. G.
Published: October 2022

Humans have always been exposed to tiny particles via dust storms, volcanic ash, and other natural processes, and our bodily systems are well adapted to protect us from these potentially harmful external agents. However, technological advancement has dramatically increased the production of nanometer-sized particles or nanoparticles (NPs), and many epidemiological studies have confirmed a correlation between NP exposure and the onset of cardiovascular diseases and various cancers. Among the adverse effects on human health, in recent years, potential hazards of nanomaterials on female reproductive organs have received increasing concern. Several animal and human studies have shown that NPs can translocate to the ovary, uterus, and placenta, thus negatively impacting female reproductive potential and fetal health. However, NPs are increasingly being used for therapeutic purposes as tools capable of modifying the natural history of degenerative diseases. Here we briefly summarize the toxic effects of few but widely diffused NPs on female fertility and also the use of nanotechnologies as a new molecular approach for either specific pathological conditions, such as ovarian cancer and infertility, or the cryopreservation of gametes and embryos.
Development and Preliminary Evaluation of the Effects of a Preceptor Reflective Practice Program: A Mixed-Method Research
Authors: Kim Heui-Seon , Jeong Hye-Won , Ju Deok , Lee Jung-A , Ahn Shin-Hye
Published: October 2022

Studies on methods to share nursing and learning experiences with preceptors are lacking. This study was conducted to determine the preliminary effects of developing and applying a reflective practice program for preceptor nurses who experience stressful situations to convert negative emotions into positive ones. This study was conducted over 12 weeks from March to May 2022 on 47 participant nurses in South Korea. Preceptor Reflective Practice Program (PRPP) was conducted in parallel with writing a reflective journal and a reflective practice workshop. Data collection was integrated through quantitative and qualitative approaches. Quantitative data were collected through questionnaires on stress coping, the burden of preceptors, social support, and emotional intelligence, and analyzed by SPSS WIN 26.0 program. The questionnaire data were analyzed after the preceptor nurses had written a reflective journal. Stress coping, social support, and emotional intelligence significantly increased in preceptor nurses after participating in the PRPP. This study found that the PRPP helped nurses improve their emotional intelligence through reflective practice and convert stress into a more positive direction. Therefore, at the organizational and national levels, a reasonable compensation system to provide support workforce and to the work of preceptor nurses should be established.
Metabolic Syndrome in Fasting and Non-Fasting Participants: The UAE Healthy Future Study
Authors: Mezhal Fatima , Ahmad Amar , Abdulle Abdishakur , Leinberger-Jabari Andrea , Oulhaj Abderrahim , AlJunaibi Abdulla , Alnaeemi Abdulla , Al Dhaheri Ayesha S. , AlZaabi Eiman , Al-Maskari Fatma , AlAnouti Fatme , Alsafar Habiba , Alkaabi Juma , Wareth Laila Abdel , Aljaber Mai , Kazim Marina , Alblooshi Manal , Al-Houqani Mohammad , Hag Ali Mohammad , Oumeziane Naima , El-Shahawy Omar , Al-Rifai Rami H. , Sherman Scott , Shah Syed M. , Loney Tom , Almahmeed Wael , Idaghdour Youssef , Ahmed Luai A. , Ali Raghib
Published: October 2022

Introduction: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a multiplex of risk factors that predispose people to the development of diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD), two of the major non-communicable diseases that contribute to mortality in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). MetS guidelines require the testing of fasting samples, but there are evidence-based suggestions that non-fasting samples are also reliable for CVD-related screening measures. In this study, we aimed to estimate MetS and its components in a sample of young Emiratis using HbA1c as another glycemic marker. We also aimed to estimate the associations of some known CVD risk factors with MetS in our population. Methods: The study was based on a cross-sectional analysis of baseline data of 5161 participants from the UAE Healthy Future Study (UAEHFS). MetS was identified using the NCEP ATP III criteria, with the addition of HbA1c as another glycemic indicator. Fasting blood glucose (FBG) and HbA1c were used either individually or combined to identify the glycemic component of MetS, based on the fasting status. Multivariate regression analysis was used to test for associations of selected social and behavioral factors with MetS. Results: Our sample included 3196 men and 1965 women below the age of 40 years. Only about 21% of the sample were fasting at the time of recruitment. The age-adjusted prevalence of MetS was estimated as 22.7% in males and 12.5% in females. MetS prevalence was not statistically different after substituting FBG by HbA1c in the fasting groups (p > 0.05). Age, increased body mass index (BMI), and family history of any metabolic abnormality and/or heart disease were consistently strongly associated with MetS. Conclusion: MetS is highly prevalent in our sample of young Emirati adults. Our data showed that HbA1c may be an acceptable tool to test for the glycemic component of MetS in non-fasting samples. We found that the most relevant risk factors for predicting the prevalence of MetS were age, BMI, and family history.
The Impact of Urbanization on the Relationship between Carbon Storage Supply and Demand in Mega-Urban Agglomerations and Response Measures: A Case of Yangtze River Delta Region, China
Authors: Yang Yinan , Li Jing , Wang Li , Wang Zihao , Ling Yun , Xu Jialong , Yao Chenxin , Sun Yiyan , Wang Yuan , Zhao Lixia
Published: October 2022

Rapid urbanization in mega-urban agglomerations disturbs the balance of carbon storage supply and demand (CSD) and constrains the achievement of sustainable development goals. Here, we developed a socio-ecological system (SES) framework coupled with ecosystem services (ES) cascade and DPSIR model to systematically analyze the impacts and responses of urbanization affecting CSD. We quantified urbanization and CSD using multi-source remote sensing data, such as land use and night lighting, together with related socio-economic data, such as total energy consumption, population and GDP. We found that from 2000 to 2020, the urbanization of Yangtze River Delta region (YRD) led to a decrease of 2.75% in carbon storage supply and an increase of 226.45% in carbon storage demand. However, carbon storage supply was still larger than carbon storage demand, and the spatial mismatch of CSD is the most important problem at present. Therefore, it is necessary to explore the response measures from the comprehensive perspective of SES. We identified key ecological conservation areas using a Marxan model to protect the carbon storage capacity in ecological subsystems, and promoted a carbon compensation scheme based on both the grandfather principle and the carbon efficiency principle, reconciling the contradiction between ecological conservation and socio-economic development in the social subsystem. Finally, this study quantified the threshold of urbanization based on the carbon neutrality target at which CSD reaches an equilibrium state. This study proposed a SES framework, and a set of methodologies to quantify the relationship between urbanization and CSD, which will help mega-urban agglomerations to promote harmonious development of urbanization and ecological conservation and to achieve the carbon peak and carbon neutrality targets proposed by the Chinese government.
Association between Statin Use and Diabetes Risk in Patients with Transient Ischemic Attack
Authors: Chen Fu-Jun , Yin Ming-Chien , Chen Pei-Yun , Lin Min-Hua , Peng Yi-Hao , Ho Wen-Chao , Chen Pau-Chung , Hsu Chung Y.
Published: October 2022

Statin therapy can effectively reduce recurrent transient ischemic attack (TIA) risk. However, studies have reported that statin use is associated with incidence of diabetes mellitus (DM). Whether statin therapy remains associated with higher DM risk in patients with TIA remains unknown. This study investigated whether statin treatment influences incident DM risk in patients with TIA. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2000. Participants who were newly diagnosed with TIA (ICD-9-CM code 435) from 1 January 1997 to 31 December 2011 were recruited. The Kaplan–Meier method and Cox proportional risk model of time-dependent covariance were used. We enrolled 8342 patients with newly diagnosed TIA from 1 January 1997 to 31 December 2011. Of these, 1255 patients were classified as statin users and 7087 as nonusers. During the 14-year follow-up, the incidence of newly diagnosed DM was 0.545-fold lower in the statins group compared with nonusers (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.457–0.650). According to cumulative defined daily doses (cDDDs), the adjusted hazard ratios for DM were 0.689, 0.594, and 0.463 when patients were treated with statins at cDDDs = 28–89, 90–180, and >180, respectively. In patients with TIA, statin use is associated with a lower incident DM risk compared with the nonuse of statins.
Experiences of Older Aboriginal People in Navigating Transport Systems in an Urban Setting: An Indigenous Perspective on Transport Access, a Social Determinant of Health
Authors: Ma Tracey , Ivers Rebecca , Solar John , Simon Aaron , de Leeuw Evelyne , Clapham Kathleen
Published: October 2022

Background: In Australia, Aboriginal people are underserved by the transport system and are less able to easily get to places they need to go than others. This is a part of a larger pattern of exclusion and inequity for Aboriginal people which affects their health, wellbeing, and social participation. Guided by a decolonising framework, this research explored how older Aboriginal people, whose pivotal roles in their families and communities require their mobility, experience the transportation system, providing an Indigenous-centred view of the accessibility of transportation options in society. Methods: Interviews drawing from the yarning technique were conducted with ten older Aboriginal people living in Greater Western Sydney and analysed qualitatively. Results: In addition to the cognitive labour required to decipher the rules of the transport system and organise commitments to match the scheduling of transport services, older Aboriginal people in this study experienced stigmatising attitudes and condescending treatment from service professionals and the public when traveling. Conclusions: This study suggests three potential ways that the current trajectory that underserves older Aboriginal people could be disrupted, relating to service design, the diversity and inclusion agenda, and the social determinants of Indigenous health.
Cost–Benefit Analysis of Interventions to Mitigate the Monkeypox Virus
Authors: ALSHAHRANI Ali Mofleh
Published: October 2022

When a viral outbreak occurs, governments are obligated to protect their citizens from the diverse adverse effects of the disease. Health policymakers often have several interventions to consider based on the health of the population, as well as the cascading social and economic consequences of the possible mitigation strategies. The current outbreak of the monkeypox virus has elicited debate on the best mitigation strategy, especially given that most world economies are still recovering from the harsh economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper sought to analyze the costs and benefits of three possible strategies and determine which option has the best health outcomes and positive economic effects. A case study of Jeddah was performed, whereby a model was simulated to determine the number of infections over 28 days based on one case of the monkeypox virus. Findings reveal that the vaccination provides the best intervention, as it effectively reduces the transmission rate and prevents loss of lives in the city. From the model, only three people were infected over the research period, while no deaths were reported. Although vaccination incurs a huge direct cost at the beginning, in the long run, it saves the economy from the disease’s financial burden in terms of productivity loss from work absenteeism and premature deaths.
A Pilot Study of Ketamine Infusion after Suicide Attempt: New Frontiers in Treating Acute Suicidality in a Real-World Medical Setting
Authors: Shivanekar Sharvari , Gopalan Priya , Pizon Anthony , Spotts Crystal , Cruz Nicolas , Lightfoot Michael , Rohac Rebecca , Baumeister Andrew , Griffo Angela , Panny Benjamin , Kucherer Shelly , Israel Alex , Rengasamy Manivel , Price Rebecca
Published: October 2022

Ketamine, in research settings, rapidly reduces suicidal thoughts 2–24 h after a single infusion in patients with high suicidal ideation. In this study, the authors investigate ketamine’s effects on suicidality in a real-world sample of recent suicide attempters on a tertiary-care Consultation-Liaison (CL) psychiatry service. Using an open-label design, 16 transdiagnostic CL patients were recruited, 18–65 years old, to receive a single dose of intravenous ketamine (0.5 mg/kg) in the acute medical setting. All were psychiatrically hospitalized post-infusion. Baseline suicidality and depression measures were compared to ratings taken at 24 h, 5 days, 12 days, and 1, 3 and 6 months post-infusion using paired t-tests. Across all measures, rapid, statistically significant decreases (p’s < 0.001) were observed with large to very large effect sizes (Cohen’s d’s: 1.7–8.8) at acute timepoints (24 h; 5 days). These gains were uniformly maintained to 6 months post-infusion. Open-label ketamine appeared to rapidly and robustly reduced suicidal symptoms in an ultra-high-risk, heterogeneous, real-world sample. Ketamine infusion may therefore be a safe, feasible, viable method to rapidly reduce suicidality among medically hospitalized patients after a suicide attempt, with potentially enduring benefits. The current pilot findings suggest ketamine could be readily integrated into the settings where high-risk CL patients already receive healthcare, with the potential to become an important and novel tool in the treatment of suicidality.
Modelling Identity Disturbance: A Network Analysis of the Personality Structure Questionnaire (PSQ)
Authors: Mangion Georgia , Simmonds-Buckley Melanie , Kellett Stephen , Taylor Peter , Degnan Amy , Humphrey Charlotte , Freshwater Kate , Poggioli Marisa , Fiorani Cristina
Published: October 2022

Due to the relevance of identity disturbance to personality disorder this study sought to complete a network analysis of a well validated measure of identity disturbance; the personality structure questionnaire (PSQ). A multi-site and cross-national methodology created an overall sample of N = 1549. The global network structure of the PSQ was analysed and jointly estimated networks were compared across four subsamples (UK versus Italy, adults versus adolescents, clinical versus community and complex versus common presenting problems). Stability analyses assessed the robustness of identified networks. Results indicated that PSQ3 (unstable sense of self) and PSQ5 (mood variability) were the most central items in the global network structure. Network structures significantly differed between the UK and Italy. Centrality of items was largely consistent across subsamples. This study provides evidence of the potential network structure of identity disturbance and so guides clinicians in targeting interventions facilitating personality integration.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Opioid-Related Overdose Deaths in Texas
Authors: Lalani Karima , Bakos-Block Christine , Cardenas-Turanzas Marylou , Cohen Sarah , Gopal Bhanumathi , Champagne-Langabeer Tiffany
Published: October 2022

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the United States was facing an epidemic of opioid overdose deaths, clouding accurate inferences about the impact of the pandemic at the population level. We sought to determine the existence of increases in the trends of opioid-related overdose (ORO) deaths in the Greater Houston metropolitan area from January 2015 through December 2021, and to describe the social vulnerability present in the geographic location of these deaths. We merged records from the county medical examiner’s office with social vulnerability indexes (SVIs) for the region and present geospatial locations of the aggregated ORO deaths. Time series analyses were conducted to determine trends in the deaths, with a specific focus on the years 2019 to 2021. A total of 2660 deaths were included in the study and the mean (standard deviation, SD) age at death was 41.04 (13.60) years. Heroin and fentanyl were the most frequent opioids detected, present in 1153 (43.35%) and 1023 (38.46%) ORO deaths. We found that ORO deaths increased during the years 2019 to 2021 (p-value ≤ 0.001) when compared with 2015. Compared to the year 2019, ORO deaths increased for the years 2020 and 2021 (p-value ≤ 0.001). The geographic locations of ORO deaths were not associated with differences in the SVI. The COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on increasing ORO deaths in the metropolitan Houston area; however, identifying the determinants to guide targeted interventions in the areas of greatest need may require other factors, in addition to community-level social vulnerability parameters.