bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BARD1 Pathogenic Variants Are Associated with Triple-Negative Breast Cancer in a Spanish Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Cohort
Authors: Rofes Paula , Del Valle Jesús , Torres-Esquius Sara , Feliubadaló Lídia , Stradella Agostina , Moreno-Cabrera José Marcos , López-Doriga Adriana , Munté Elisabet , De Cid Rafael , Campos Olga , Cuesta Raquel , Teulé Álex , Grau Èlia , Sanz Judit , Capellá Gabriel , Díez Orland , Brunet Joan , Balmaña Judith , Lázaro Conxi
Published: January 2021

Only a small fraction of hereditary breast and/or ovarian cancer (HBOC) cases are caused by germline variants in the high-penetrance breast cancer 1 and 2 genes (BRCA1 and BRCA2). BRCA1-associated ring domain 1 (BARD1), nuclear partner of BRCA1, has been suggested as a potential HBOC risk gene, although its prevalence and penetrance are variable according to populations and type of tumor. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of BARD1 truncating variants in a cohort of patients with clinical suspicion of HBOC. A comprehensive BARD1 screening by multigene panel analysis was performed in 4015 unrelated patients according to our regional guidelines for genetic testing in hereditary cancer. In addition, 51,202 Genome Aggregation Database (gnomAD) non-Finnish, non-cancer European individuals were used as a control population. In our patient cohort, we identified 19 patients with heterozygous BARD1 truncating variants (0.47%), whereas the frequency observed in the gnomAD controls was 0.12%. We found a statistically significant association of truncating BARD1 variants with overall risk (odds ratio (OR) = 3.78; CI = 2.10–6.48; p = 1.16 × 10−5). This association remained significant in the hereditary breast cancer (HBC) group (OR = 4.18; CI = 2.10–7.70; p = 5.45 × 10−5). Furthermore, deleterious BARD1 variants were enriched among triple-negative BC patients (OR = 5.40; CI = 1.77–18.15; p = 0.001) compared to other BC subtypes. Our results support the role of BARD1 as a moderate penetrance BC predisposing gene and highlight a stronger association with triple-negative tumors.
Pharmacogenetic Testing of Cytochrome P450 Drug Metabolizing Enzymes in a Case Series of Patients with Prader-Willi Syndrome
Authors: Forster Janice , Duis Jessica , Butler Merlin G.
Published: January 2021

Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is associated with co-morbid psychiatric symptoms (disruptive behavior, anxiety, mood disorders, and psychosis) often requiring psychotropic medications. In this clinical case series of 35 patients with PWS, pharmacogenetic testing was obtained to determine allele frequencies predicting variations in activity of cytochrome (CYP) P450 drug metabolizing enzymes 2D6, 2B6, 2C19, 2C9, 3A4, and 1A2. Results were deidentified, collated, and analyzed by PWS genetic subtype: 14 deletion (DEL), 16 maternal uniparental disomy (UPD) and 5 DNA-methylation positive unspecified molecular subtype (PWS Unspec). Literature review informed comparative population frequencies of CYP polymorphisms, phenotypes, and substrate specificity. Among the total PWS cohort, extensive metabolizer (EM) activity prevailed across all cytochromes except CYP1A2, which showed greater ultra-rapid metabolizer (UM) status (p < 0.05), especially among UPD. Among PWS genetic subtypes, there were statistically significant differences in metabolizing status for cytochromes 2D6, 2C19, 2C9, 3A4 and 1A2 acting on substrates such as fluoxetine, risperidone, sertraline, modafinil, aripiprazole, citalopram, and escitalopram. Gonadal steroid therapy may further impact metabolism of 2C19, 2C9, 3A4 and 1A2 substrates. The status of growth hormone treatment may affect CYP3A4 activity with gender specificity. Pharmacogenetic testing together with PWS genetic subtyping may inform psychotropic medication dosing parameters and risk for adverse events.
Deregulated Immune Pathway Associated with Palbociclib Resistance in Preclinical Breast Cancer Models: Integrative Genomics and Transcriptomics
Authors: Pandey Kamal , Lee Eunbyeol , Park Nahee , Hur Jin , Cho Young Bin , Katuwal Nar Bahadur , Kim Seung Ki , Lee Seung Ah , Kim Isaac , An Hee Jung , Hwang Sohyun , Moon Yong Wha
Published: January 2021

Recently, cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 4/6 inhibitors have been widely used to treat advanced hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. Despite promising clinical outcomes, almost all patients eventually acquire resistance to CDK4/6 inhibitors. Here, we screened genes associated with palbociclib resistance through genomics and transcriptomics in preclinical breast cancer models. Palbociclib-resistant cells were generated by exposing hormone receptor-positive breast cancer cell lines to palbociclib. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) and a mRNA microarray were performed to compare the genomic and transcriptomic landscape between both palbociclib-sensitive and resistant cells. Microarray analysis revealed 651 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), while WES revealed 107 clinically significant mutated genes. Furthermore, pathway analysis of both DEGs and mutated genes revealed immune pathway deregulation in palbociclib-resistant cells. Notably, DEG annotation revealed activation of type I interferon pathway, activation of immune checkpoint inhibitory pathway, and suppression of immune checkpoint stimulatory pathway in palbociclib-resistant cells. Moreover, mutations in NCOR1, MUC4, and MUC16 genes found in palbociclib-resistant cells were annotated to be related to the immune pathway. In conclusion, our genomics and transcriptomics analysis using preclinical model, revealed that deregulated immune pathway is an additional mechanism of CDK4/6 inhibitor resistance besides the activation of cyclin E-CDK2 pathway and loss of RB, etc. Further studies are warranted to evaluate whether immune pathways may be a therapeutic target to overcome CDK4/6 inhibitor resistance.
The 2017, MD = 4.0, Casamicciola Earthquake: ESI-07 Scale Evaluation and Implications for the Source Model
Authors: Nappi Rosa , Porfido Sabina , Paganini Elisa , Vezzoli Luigina , Ferrario Maria Francesca , Gaudiosi Germana , Alessio Giuliana , Michetti Alessandro Maria
Published: January 2021

On 21 August 2017 at 20:57 (local time) a very shallow (H = 1.2 km), moderate (Md = 4.0), earthquake hit the volcanic island of Ischia (Southern Italy), causing the death of two people. The study of the damage to the buildings with the European Macroseismic Scale 98 (EMS-98), carried out immediately after the earthquake, highlighted that hilly area of Casamicciola Terme, on the northern side of the Mt. Epomeo, was the most damaged part of the island with locally quite relevant damage (I = VIII EMS). This seismic event is the first damaging earthquake in Ischia during the instrumental era. In fact, this provides, for the first time, the opportunity to integrate historical seismicity, macroseismic observations, instrumental information, and detailed mapping of the geological coseismic effects. In this work we evaluate the effects induced by the 2017 Casamicciola earthquake on the environment using the Environmental Seismic Intensity 2007 (ESI-07) macroseismic scale. This macroseismic analysis, together with the superficial coseismic faulting characteristics and the available geophysical information, allows us to reconsider the source model for the 2017 earthquake and the previous damaging historical earthquakes in the Casamicciola Terme area. The application of the ESI scale to the Casamicciola Terme earthquake of 21 August 2017 and the assignment of seismic intensity offers better spatial resolution, as well as an increase of the time window for the assessment of the seismic hazard, allowing to reduce the implicit uncertainty in the intensity attenuation laws in this peculiar volcano-tectonic setting. Since intensity is linked to the direct measure of damage, and it is commonly used in hazard assessment, we argue that building damage at Casamicciola Terme is strongly influenced by earthquake surface faulting and near field effects, and therefore controlled by the geometry of the seismic source.
“Nature’s Revolt”: The River’s Reply in Ida Fink’s A Scrap of Time
Authors: Menard Bridget
Published: January 2021

This article accounts for what language and memory are and are not capable of in literary depictions of the Holocaust. To read, analyze, or even write Holocaust narratives, readers must expect to encounter new forms of writing and expression. This interpretation of Ida Fink’s A Scrap of Time effectively inverts the paradox of ‘telling’ the unspeakable by giving voice to an aspect of life that cannot communicate in clear and ordinary ways. In Fink’s fiction, nature speaks. The Gniezna River in “A Spring Morning”, a nameless river in “Titina”, and the Rhine River in “Night of the Surrender”, all brim with associations and themes concerning connections between language, time, meaning, God, nature, and human suffering during the Holocaust. They have unspeakable things to say, refusing to remain silent in response to human atrocity.
Assessment of Awareness and Knowledge on Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic among Seafarers
Authors: Battineni Gopi , Sagaro Getu Gamo , Chintalapudi Nalini , Di Canio Marzio , Amenta Francesco
Published: January 2021

Background: The ongoing pandemic due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is becoming a serious global threat. Experts suggest that the infection can be controlled by immediate prevention measures. Sailing is one of the occupational categories more vulnerable to this virus outbreak due to the proximity of the working conditions. Objective: Awareness and knowledge assessments of seafarers towards the current epidemic is mandatory to understand the effectiveness and success of the infection control measures adopted by shipping companies. Methods: In this study, we presented an online questionnaire survey to determine the knowledge levels of COVID-19 among seafarers. The data were collected by self-reported survey, and analysis was done by the analysis of variance (ANOVA). The t-test was used to understand the knowledge attitude differences to COVID-19 among different occupational groups of seafarers, and the p-value ≤ of 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Among 1,458 responses received, 92.82% had a college or university degree. The results reported that the mean COVID-19 knowledge score was 5.82 (standard deviation = 0.51, range 0–6), and the overall correct percentage was 97%. There was a statistically significant difference between age groups (F (4, 1453) = 5.44, p < 0.001) and educational groups (F (4, 1453) = 1.52, p < 0.001). The knowledge score was not significantly different across the educational status of the participants (F (2, 1455) = 1.52, p = 0.220). Conclusions: The present study highlighted good knowledge and behaviours among sailors about COVID-19. However, shipping companies need to come up with new campaigns to hold optimistic practices and suitable guidelines on ships, including cruise boats, to keep sea workers always alert and collaborative in mitigating the spread of COVID-19.
Percutaneous Mitral Valve Repair with the MitraClip System in the Current Clinical Practice
Authors: Sorrentino Sergio , Berardini Alessandra , Statuto Giovanni , Angeletti Andrea , Massaro Giulia , Capobianco Claudio , Piemontese Giuseppe Pio , Spadotto Alberto , Toniolo Sebastiano , Caponetti Angelo Giuseppe , Ditaranto Raffaello , Parisi Vanda , Minnucci Matteo , Ferrara Valentina , Galiè Nazzareno , Biagini Elena
Published: January 2021

Severe mitral valve regurgitation (MR) carries a significant burden both in prognosis and quality of life of patients, as well as on healthcare systems, with high rates of hospitalization for heart failure. While mitral valve surgery constitutes the first-line treatment option for primary MR in suitable patients, surgical treatment for secondary severe MR remains controversial, with a substantial lack of evidence on a survival benefit. In recent decades, percutaneous mitral valve repair has emerged as an alternative treatment for patients deemed not suitable for surgery. Among several devices under development or evaluation, the MitraClip system is the most widespread and is supported by the strongest evidence. While the role of MitraClip in patients with chronic primary MR who are not deemed suitable for surgery is well established, with consistent data showing improvement in both prognosis and quality of life, MitraClip treatment in secondary MR is a rapidly evolving field. Two recent randomized clinical trials generated apparently controversial results but actually provided an interesting pathophysiologic frame that could help discerning patients who will benefit from the procedure versus patients who will not. In this review, we will discuss current treatment options for mitral regurgitation, focusing on percutaneous mitral valve repair with the MitraClip system.
Water Photo-Electrooxidation Using Mats of TiO2 Nanorods, Surface Sensitized by a Metal–Organic Framework of Nickel and 1,2-Benzene Dicarboxylic Acid
Authors: You Sheng-Mu , El Rouby Waleed M. A. , Assaud Loïc , Doong Ruey-An , Millet Pierre
Published: January 2021

Photoanodes comprising a transparent glass substrate coated with a thin conductive film of fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) and a thin layer of a photoactive phase have been fabricated and tested with regard to the photo-electro-oxidation of water into molecular oxygen. The photoactive layer was made of a mat of TiO2 nanorods (TDNRs) of micrometric thickness. Individual nanorods were successfully photosensitized with nanoparticles of a metal–organic framework (MOF) of nickel and 1,2-benzene dicarboxylic acid (BDCA). Detailed microstructural information was obtained from SEM and TEM analysis. The chemical composition of the active layer was determined by XRD, XPS and FTIR analysis. Optical properties were determined by UV–Vis spectroscopy. The water photooxidation activity was evaluated by linear sweep voltammetry and the robustness was assessed by chrono-amperometry. The OER (oxygen evolution reaction) photo-activity of these photoelectrodes was found to be directly related to the amount of MOF deposited on the TiO2 nanorods, and was therefore maximized by adjusting the MOF content. The microscopic reaction mechanism which controls the photoactivity of these photoelectrodes was analyzed by photo-electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Microscopic rate parameters are reported. These results contribute to the development and characterization of MOF-sensitized OER photoanodes.
Comparison of Hydrogen Powertrains with the Battery Powered Electric Vehicle and Investigation of Small-Scale Local Hydrogen Production Using Renewable Energy
Authors: Handwerker Michael , Wellnitz Jörg , Marzbani Hormoz
Published: January 2021

Climate change is one of the major problems that people face in this century, with fossil fuel combustion engines being huge contributors. Currently, the battery powered electric vehicle is considered the predecessor, while hydrogen vehicles only have an insignificant market share. To evaluate if this is justified, different hydrogen power train technologies are analyzed and compared to the battery powered electric vehicle. Even though most research focuses on the hydrogen fuel cells, it is shown that, despite the lower efficiency, the often-neglected hydrogen combustion engine could be the right solution for transitioning away from fossil fuels. This is mainly due to the lower costs and possibility of the use of existing manufacturing infrastructure. To achieve a similar level of refueling comfort as with the battery powered electric vehicle, the economic and technological aspects of the local small-scale hydrogen production are being investigated. Due to the low efficiency and high prices for the required components, this domestically produced hydrogen cannot compete with hydrogen produced from fossil fuels on a larger scale.
Hydrological Modelling for Water Resource Management in a Semi-Arid Mountainous Region Using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool: A Case Study in Northern Afghanistan
Authors: Hussainzada Wahidullah , Lee Han Soo
Published: January 2021

To address the issues of water shortages and the loss of agricultural products at harvest in northern Afghanistan, the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) was applied for agricultural water resource management by simulating surface runoff in the Balkhab River basin (BRB) on a monthly basis from 2013 to 2018. Elevation, slope, land cover data, soil maps, and climate data such as temperature, precipitation, relative humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation were used as inputs in the SWAT modelling. During the dry season from July to September, the water resources downstream were basically attributed to baseflow from groundwater. In the calibration, the groundwater baseflow was estimated by analyzing station-recorded discharges for 190 springs. With the estimated baseflow, the SWAT results were markedly improved, with R2 values of 0.70, 0.86, 0.67, and 0.80, Nash-Sutcliff efficiency (NSE) values of 0.52, 0.83, 0.40, and 0.57, and percent bias (PBIAS) values of 23.4, −8.5, 23.4, and 17.5 in the four different subbasins. In the validation, the statistics also indicated satisfactory results. The output of this study can be used in agricultural water resource management with irrigation practices and further in the assessment of climate change effects on the water resources in the BRB.
Contribution of Subway Expansions to Air Quality Improvement and the Corresponding Health Implications in Nanjing, China
Authors: Zheng Meina , Guo Xiucheng , Liu Feng , Shen Jiayan
Published: January 2021

With China’s rapid economic development, particularly its accelerated urbanization, air pollution has been one of the serious environmental issues across China. Most major cities in China expand their subway systems to handle this problem. This study takes both long- and short-term effects of subway expansions on air quality and its corresponding health implications into account based on a network density-based time series analysis and a distance-based difference-in-differences analysis. The daily and hourly monitor-level air quality data on Nanjing from 13 May 2014 to 31 December 2018, combining with corresponding weather variables, are used to quantify the effect of subway expansions on local air pollution caused by eight new subway lines in Nanjing. The results reveal that subway expansions result in a statistically significant decrease in the air pollution level; specifically, the air pollution level experiences a 3.93% larger reduction in the areas close to subway lines. Heterogeneous analysis of different air pollutants indicates that the air pollution reduction effect of subway expansions is more significant in terms of Particulate Matter (PM2.5) and CO. A back-of-the-envelope analysis of the health benefits from this air improvement shows that the total number of yearly averted premature deaths is around 300,214 to 443,498. A set of alternative specifications confirm the robustness of our results. These results provide strong support for putting more emphasis on the environmental effect of subway expansions in the cost-benefit analysis of subway planning.
COVID-19-Related Intolerance of Uncertainty and Mental Health among Back-To-School Students in Wuhan: The Moderation Effect of Social Support
Authors: Zhuo Lijun , Wu Qian , Le Hong , Li Hao , Zheng Ling , Ma Guoqing , Tao Hongbing
Published: January 2021

The current wave and future trend of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has triggered public uncertainty, causing unbearable psychological pressure on people. A cross-sectional online questionnaire was conducted among back-to-school students in Wuhan from 31 August 2020, to 14 September 2020, by using convenience sampling. A total of 1017 participants voluntarily provided sociodemographic characteristics and accomplished the following scales: the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale (IUS-12), the Social Support Scale (SSQ), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and the Insomnia Severity Index-7 (ISI-7). Results revealed that the levels of anxiety, depression, and insomnia were moderate, moderate and subthreshold, respectively. A one-way multivariate analysis of variance indicated that those with different attitudes toward the trajectory of the COVID-19 epidemic in China showed significantly different results in anxiety and depression (p < 0.001). Moderation modeling implicated that social support significantly moderated the predictive relationship between intolerance of uncertainty and mental health variables including anxiety and depression, but failed on insomnia. Findings indicate that back-to-school students in Wuhan experience mental health problems and improving social support measures could buffer the effect of intolerance of uncertainty with respect to COVID-19 on mental health.
Trauma and Coping Strategies in Police Officers: A Quantitative-Qualitative Pilot Study
Authors: Civilotti Cristina , Di Fini Giulia , Maran Daniela Acquadro
Published: January 2021

Background. Because of their work, emergency workers, such as police officers (POs), are exposed to traumatic events on a daily basis. These experiences can have consequences in terms of physical and emotional stress. Primary attachment relationships affect the development of coping strategies for dealing with stressful events (primarily hyperactivating strategies in entangled adults and hypo-activating strategies in dismissing adults). In this study, we explored how POs describe the experience of traumatic accidents, the effects they reported and their coping strategies related to their attachment style. Methods. We used a quantitative-qualitative method. Thirty-nine POs were administered the Beck Depression Inventory, the Maslach Burnout Inventory and a semi-structured interview about traumatic events and reactions. Interviews were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Results. Traumatic events at work predominantly concerned aggressions, witnessing deaths, forced hospitalizations, and domestic violence involving children. POs with a responsible role were more likely than POs to use security-based strategies. Most POs narrated overactivation and deactivation strategies, which were associated with depressive symptoms, emotional exhaustion, and depersonalization. Conclusions. These results can be useful to improve trauma-informed interventions for POs based on their different attachment styles and coping strategies.
Attitudes, Risk Factors, and Behaviours of Gambling among Adolescents and Young People: A Literature Review and Gap Analysis
Authors: Riley Ben J. , Oster Candice , Rahamathulla Mubarak , Lawn Sharon
Published: January 2021

Gambling is occurring in a rapidly changing landscape, with new trends and technologies affecting gambling behaviour and problem gambling across a range of populations. Gambling activity among adolescents and young people has received considerable research attention due to a high prevalence of gambling reported among these groups in recent years. Despite legislation worldwide to constrain gambling among adolescents and young people, modern technology, such as online gaming apps and online gambling venues, has significantly increased their exposure to the risks of problem gambling. It is important, therefore, to have up to date information about what is currently known about gambling and to explore gaps in our knowledge. This gap analysis presents the results of a systematic approach to reviewing the current literature on gambling behaviour, attitudes, and associated risk factors for gambling and problem gambling among adolescents and young adults (aged 10–25 years). The review included studies published between January 2015 and August 2020 and included 85 studies for final synthesis. Findings reveal further research is needed on the implications for young people of emerging technologies and new trends in gambling in the digital age. The current gap analysis reveals that this should include more research on the development and impact of both treatment and intervention strategies, and policy and regulatory frameworks from a public health perspective.
Estimation of Inhaled Effective Doses of Uranium and Thorium for Workers in Bayan Obo Ore and the Surrounding Public, Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Zhang Yao , Shao Xianzhang , Yin Liangliang , Ji Yanqin
Published: January 2021

Uranium and thorium are two common natural radioactive elements with high concentrations in Earth’s crust. The main aim of this study is to estimate the inhaled effective dose of uranium and thorium caused by a typical radioactive rare earth ore to the occupational population and the surrounding public. The particulate matter (PM) concentrations in the atmosphere of four typical workplaces and one surrounding living area were obtained by a high-flow sampling equipment with a natural cellulose filter membrane. The critical parameter for the inhaled effective dose estimation—the activity median aerodynamic diameter (AMAD)—was determined. The AMAD values of uranium and thorium in the atmosphere PM were 3.36 and 3.64 μm, respectively. The estimated median effective dose caused by inhalation thorium among the occupational population ranged from 15.3 to 269.0 μSv/a, and the corresponding value for the surrounding public was 2.3 μSv/a. All values for the effective dose caused by the inhalation of uranium were in the nSv magnitude.
Engagement in Muscle-Strengthening Activities Lowers Sarcopenia Risk in Older Adults Already Adhering to the Aerobic Physical Activity Guidelines
Authors: Veen Jort , Montiel-Rojas Diego , Nilsson Andreas , Kadi Fawzi
Published: January 2021

Sarcopenia in older adults is associated with a higher risk of falls, disability, loss of independence, and mortality. Current physical activity (PA) guidelines recommend engagement in muscle-strengthening activities (MSA) in addition to aerobic moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). However, little is known about the impact of MSA in addition to adherence to the MVPA recommendation in the guidelines. The aim of the present cross-sectional study was to determine whether or not engagement in MSA is linked to sarcopenia risk in older adults who meet the PA guidelines of 150 min of MVPA per week. A total of 193 community-dwelling older men and women (65–70 years) were included in the study. A continuous sex-specific clustered sarcopenia risk score (SRS) was created based on muscle mass assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis, handgrip strength, and five times sit-to-stand (5STS) time, assessed using standardized procedures. Adherence to PA guidelines was assessed using the Actigraph GT3x accelerometer and the EPAQ2 questionnaire. Guideline adherence to MSA twice a week was related to a significantly (p < 0.05) lower SRS compared to those who did not. This finding was evident after adjustment for adherence to the protein intake guideline and abdominal obesity. Similar impacts were observed for muscle mass and 5-STS but not for handgrip strength. In conclusion, guideline adherence to MSA is related to lower sarcopenia risk in older adults who already accumulate 150 weekly minutes of MVPA, which reinforces the promotion of the MSA guideline, alongside the MVPA guideline, to fight against sarcopenia progression in ageing populations.
Emotional Eating and Weight Status in Adolescents: A Systematic Review
Authors: Limbers Christine A. , Summers Emma
Published: January 2021

Background: Despite evidence that emotional eating is associated with weight gain in adults, less is known about this association in adolescents. The purpose of the current study was to conduct a systematic review to assess the association between emotional eating and weight status in adolescents. This study also sought to describe existing measures of emotional eating in adolescents and explore weight-loss interventions that assessed emotional eating in relation to weight status in this population. Methods: Two independent reviewers searched the database PubMed for published or in press peer-reviewed studies that assessed the association between emotional eating and weight status in adolescents aged 12 to 19 years. Studies were excluded from this review if they were not written in the English language, did not include a measure of emotional eating, or were a dissertation study. Results: A total of 13 studies met full inclusion criteria and were included in the systematic review. Of the six longitudinal studies in the review, only one found a prospective association between emotional eating and weight status. The Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire was the most widely used measure of emotional eating in the systematic review (n = 6; 46.2%). The one intervention study included in this review found that baseline emotional eating was not associated with weight outcomes 2 years following gastric bypass surgery in obese Swedish adolescents (13–18 years). Conclusions: While there were some inconsistent findings across the studies included in this review, taken as a whole, the results largely do not support an association between emotional eating and elevated weight status or reduced weight loss in adolescents.
Eficacy of Cryotherapy in the Prevention of Oral Mucosistis in Adult Patients with Chemotherapy
Authors: López-González Ángel , García-Quintanilla Marta , Guerrero-Agenjo Carmen María , Tendero Jaime López , Guisado-Requena Isabel María , Rabanales-Sotos Joseba
Published: January 2021

Oral mucositis (OM) is a common side effect of cancer therapies. It causes ulcerative, painful lesions in the oral cavity that can provoke malnutrition, increased risk of infection, longer hospital stays, and seriously affect the quality of life. Cooling the mucosa with oral cryotherapy (OC) during and/or after chemotherapy is the most accessible and tolerable intervention available. The aim of this study is to define the efficacy of OC for preventing OM induced by chemotherapy/radiotherapy in adult patients with cancer. Secondary endpoints include associated problems as pain. A systematic search was performed using the Pubmed, WOS (Web of Science), Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and BVS databases for articles published up to 2010. After inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, a total of eight articles were analyzed in this review. In seven of the eight articles, the incidence of OM of all grades was significantly lower in the OC group compared with the no-OC group. Use of opioids and level of pain were also significantly reduced. OC is an effective intervention to reduce the incidence of OM induced by chemotherapy as well as the associated severity and pain. Based on these results, OC with only water or with chamomile, associated or not with other mouthwash therapies, is an effective intervention to reduce the incidence of OM induced by chemotherapy as well as the associated severity and pain.
Ranking the Healthcare Resource Factors for Public Satisfaction with Health System in China—Based on the Grey Relational Analysis Models
Authors: Peng Xinxin , Tang Xiaolei , Chen Yijun , Zhang Jinghua
Published: January 2021

(1) Background: Public satisfaction with the health system is a very important comprehensive indicator. Given the limited healthcare resources in a society, it is always important for policymakers to have full information about the priority and the ranking order of the factors of healthcare resources for improving public satisfaction. (2) Methods: Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) is advantageous for satisfaction analysis because satisfaction is a “grey concept” of “having a clear boundary but vague connotation”. The data were from the CGSS and the China Health Statistics Yearbook (2013 and 2015), with a total of 15,969 samples (average satisfaction score = 68.5, age = 51.9, female = 49.4%). (3) Results: The government’s percentage of total expenditure on healthcare was ranked as the most important factor for public satisfaction with the health system in China in both 2013 and 2015. The second most important factor changed from “Out-of-pocket percentage of individuals” in 2013 to “Hospital beds per thousand populations” in 2015. Meanwhile, “Healthcare workforce per thousand populations” increased from the least important factor in 2013 to the 3rd in 2015. Disparities in the ranking orders of the factors among regions of China were identified too. (4) Conclusions: The analysis results suggest that during recent years the priority of Chinese residents’ healthcare satisfaction for healthcare resources has shifted on the national level from economic affordability to more intensive “people-centered” services, while the regional disparities and gaps need to receive more attention and be further improved in the healthcare reform of next round.
Temporal and Spatial Variation of Radon Concentrations in Environmental Water from Okinawa Island, Southwestern Part of Japan
Authors: Nakasone Shunya , Ishimine Akinobu , Shiroma Shuhei , Masuda Natsumi , Nakamura Kaori , Shiroma Yoshitaka , Ooka Sohei , Tanaka Masahiro , Kato Akemi , Hosoda Masahiro , Akata Naofumi , Yasuoka Yumi , Furukawa Masahide
Published: January 2021

In this study, to get a better understanding in characterizing groundwater and ensure its effective management, the radon concentrations in water samples were measured through Ryukyu limestone in southern Okinawa Island, Japan. Water samples were collected from a limestone cave (Gyokusendo cave, dropping water) and two springs (Ukinju and Komesu, spring water), and the radon concentrations were measured by liquid scintillation counters. The radon concentrations in the samples from the Gyokusendo cave, and Ukinju and Komesu springs were 10 ± 1.3 Bq L−1, 3.2 ± 1.0 Bq L−1, and 3.1 ± 1.1 Bq L−1, respectively. The radon concentrations showed a gradually increasing trend from summer to autumn and decreased during winter. The variation of radon concentrations in the dripping water sample from the Gyokusendo cave showed a lagged response to precipitation changes by approximately 2–3 months. The estimated radon concentrations in the dripping water sample were calculated with the measured radon concentrations from the dripping water obtained during the study period. Based on our results, groundwater in the Gyokusendo cave system was estimated to percolate through the Ryukyu limestone in 7–10 days, and the residence time of groundwater in the soil above Gyokusendo cave was estimated to be approximately 50–80 days. This work makes a valuable contribution to the understanding of groundwater processes in limestone aquifers, which is essential for ensuring groundwater sustainability.
Coping in Limbo? The Moderating Role of Coping Strategies in the Relationship between Post-Migration Stress and Well-Being during the Asylum-Seeking Process
Authors: Solberg Øivind , Sengoelge Mathilde , Nissen Alexander , Saboonchi Fredrik
Published: January 2021

Asylum seekers are faced with high levels of post-migratory stress due to uncertainty and uncontrollability of the application process, resulting in higher levels of mental health problems. Little is known about the coping strategies utilized by asylum seekers in this context. Structural equation modeling and the stepwise modeling approach were utilized on cross-sectional data from a cohort of asylum seekers in Sweden (N = 455) to examine whether adaptive coping in the form of problem-focused and cognitive-based coping would buffer the impact of post-migratory stressors by moderating the relationship between the stressors and well-being. Fit indices showed good to excellent fit of the final model that regressed well-being on selected post-migratory stressors and coping (CFI = 0.964, RMSEA = 0.043 (90% CI = 0.035–0.051), SRMR = 0.044). Well-being was negatively and significantly regressed on both perceived discrimination (B = −0.42, SE = 0.11, p < 0.001) and distressing family conflicts (B = −0.16, SE = 0.07, p = 0.037), and positively and significantly regressed on cognitive restructuring (B = 0.71, SE = 0.33, p = 0.030). There was, however, no evidence that coping strategies modified the adverse associations between the two post-migratory stressors and well-being. Interventions and policies should prioritize improving contextual factors inherent in the asylum-seeking process in order to reduce stress and enable coping.
Sulfaquinoxaline Oxidation and Toxicity Reduction by Photo-Fenton Process
Authors: Urbano Vanessa Ribeiro , Maniero Milena Guedes , Guimarães José Roberto , del Valle Luis J. , Pérez-Moya Montserrat
Published: January 2021

Sulfaquinoxaline (SQX) has been detected in environmental water samples, where its side effects are still unknown. To the best of our knowledge, its oxidation by Fenton and photo-Fenton processes has not been previously reported. In this study, SQX oxidation, mineralization, and toxicity (Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria) were evaluated at two different setups: laboratory bench (2 L) and pilot plant (15 L). The experimental design was used to assess the influence of the presence or absence of radiation source, as well as different H2O2 concentrations (94.1 to 261.9 mg L−1). The experimental conditions of both setups were: SQX = 25 mg L−1, Fe(II) = 10 mg L−1, pH 2.8 ± 0.1. Fenton and photo-Fenton were suitable for SQX oxidation and experiments resulted in higher SQX mineralization than reported in the literature. For both setups, the best process was the photo-Fenton (178.0 mg L−1 H2O2), for which over 90% of SQX was removed, over 50% mineralization, and bacterial growth inhibition less than 13%. In both set-ups, the presence or absence of radiation was equally important for sulfaquinoxaline oxidation; however, the degradation rates at the pilot plant were between two to four times higher than the obtained at the laboratory bench.
Emotional Intelligence Profiles and Self-Esteem/Self-Concept: An Analysis of Relationships in Gifted Students
Authors: Casino-García Ana María , Llopis-Bueno María José , Llinares-Insa Lucía Inmaculada
Published: January 2021

The psychological well-being of students affects their academic achievement, social relationships and school coexistence and is something that families worry about. This aspect becomes vital when students have atypical development and/or specific needs. Studies on the impact of giftedness on students’ self-concept and self-esteem offer mixed results. Emotional Intelligence (EI) is a key factor for their well-being that must be developed by educational institutions. This study analyzes the relationships between emotional intelligence profiles and both self-concept and self-esteem of identified gifted students between 8 and 18 years of age who study in regular Spanish schools and non-identified peers. A total of 118 identified gifted and 122 non-identified subjects participated in the study. The Self-Concept Scale Form 5 (AF5), the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), and the Trait Meta-Mood Scale-24 (TMMS-24) were administered. Clusters of students were identified on the basis of their scores in the three dimensions of EI. Subsequently, the differences in self-esteem and self-concept according to the student’s emotional intelligence profile were analyzed. The results showed a taxonomy of three-cluster profiles in both groups and the existence of differences between profiles of EI in the self-esteem and self-concept dimensions in gifted students, not so in the non-identified group. The results have important implications for education and health professionals, both for the evaluation and for the introduction of adjusted intervention programs in case of vulnerability.
Quit Experiences among Primary Care Patients Enrolled in a Smoking Cessation Pilot RCT Early in the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Joyce Andrea A. , Styklunas Grace M. , Rigotti Nancy A. , Neil Jordan M. , Park Elyse R. , Kruse Gina R.
Published: January 2021

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on US adults’ smoking and quitting behaviors is unclear. We explored the impact of COVID-19 on smoking behaviors, risk perceptions, and reactions to text messages during a statewide stay-at-home advisory among primary care patients who were trying to quit. From May–June 2020, we interviewed smokers enrolled in a 12-week, pilot cessation trial providing text messaging and mailed nicotine replacement medication (NCT04020718). Twenty-two individuals (82% white, mean age 55 years), representing 88% of trial participants during the stay-at-home advisory, completed exit interviews; four (18%) of them reported abstinence. Interviews were thematically analyzed by two coders. COVID-19-induced environmental changes had mixed effects, facilitating quitting for some and impeding quitting for others. While stress increased for many, those who quit found ways to cope with stress. Generally, participants felt at risk for COVID-19 complications but not at increased risk of becoming infected. Reactions to COVID-19 and quitting behaviors differed across age groups, older participants reported difficulties coping with isolation (e.g., feeling disappointed when a text message came from the study and not a live person). Findings suggest that cessation interventions addressing stress and boredom are needed during COVID-19, while smokers experiencing isolation may benefit from live-person supports.
Inequality-Related Health and Social Factors and Their Impact on Well-Being during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Findings from a National Survey in the UK
Authors: Chen Daniel Tzu-Hsuan , Wang Yi-Jen
Published: January 2021

Background: Lower socioeconomic groups and disadvantaged populations across the world suffer disproportionately from the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This study aimed to examine the impact of health- and social-inequality–related factors on well-being in order to further distinguish each of their effects during the pandemic. Methods: A nationally-representative sample of 5077 UK respondents aged 18 years or older was recruited through an online survey panel during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their subjective well-being was measured using the 11-point Cantril Ladder of Life Scale. The impact of inequality-related health and social factors (pre-existing medical conditions, household size and occupation), as well as COVID-19–related risk factors (symptoms, confirmed infections, and social distancing behaviours) on well-being were analysed using multiple linear regression models. The associations between the COVID-19–related risk factors and well-being according to the respondents’ household size and occupation were modelled in order to test the differences by their socioeconomic profile. Results: We identified inverted V-shaped associations between household size and subjective well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic. Compared to single-person households, respondents from households of two to four persons showed better well-being (β = 0.57; CI (0.44, 0.72)), whereas living in crowded households of five persons or more was associated with decreased well-being (β = −0.48; CI (−0.71, −0.25)). Furthermore, lower-skilled occupations (elementary occupations: β = −0.31; CI (−0.58, −0.03); logistics and transport services: β = −0.37; CI (−0.74, −0.01)) and chronic medical conditions (cardiometabolic or respiratory diseases: β = −0.25; CI (−0.41, −0.1); and mental health conditions: β = −1.12; CI (−1.28, −0.96)) were factors associated with reduced well-being during the pandemic. Interactions between a positive COVID-19 diagnosis, symptoms, and crowded households were identified (β = −0.95; CI (−1.76, −0.14) and β = −4.74; CI (−9.87, −1.61), respectively). Conclusions: In a national sample, the levels of general subjective well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns were disproportionately distributed across different groups within society. Preventive policies should explicitly focus on reaching lower socioeconomic groups; more emphasis should be placed on the coordination of multisectoral support in order to tackle existing health and social inequalities.
Profiling Persistent Asthma Phenotypes in Adolescents: A Longitudinal Diagnostic Evaluation from the INSPIRERS Studies
Authors: Amaral Rita , Jácome Cristina , Almeida Rute , Pereira Ana Margarida , Alves-Correia Magna , Mendes Sandra , Rodrigues José Carlos Cidrais , Carvalho Joana , Araújo Luís , Costa Alberto , Silva Armandina , Teixeira Maria Fernanda , Ferreira-Magalhães Manuel , Alves Rodrigo Rodrigues , Moreira Ana Sofia , Fernandes Ricardo M. , Ferreira Rosário , Pinto Paula Leiria , Neuparth Nuno , Bordalo Diana , Bom Ana Todo , Cálix Maria José , Ferreira Tânia , Gomes Joana , Vidal Carmen , Mendes Ana , Vasconcelos Maria João , Silva Pedro Morais , Ferraz José , Morête Ana , Pinto Claúdia Sofia , Santos Natacha , Loureiro Claúdia Chaves , Arrobas Ana , Marques Maria Luís , Lozoya Carlos , Lopes Cristina , Cardia Francisca , Loureiro Carla Chaves , Câmara Raquel , Vieira Inês , Silva Sofia da , Silva Eurico , Rodrigues Natalina , Fonseca João A.
Published: January 2021

We aimed to identify persistent asthma phenotypes among adolescents and to evaluate longitudinally asthma-related outcomes across phenotypes. Adolescents (13–17 years) from the prospective, observational, and multicenter INSPIRERS studies, conducted in Portugal and Spain, were included (n = 162). Latent class analysis was applied to demographic, environmental, and clinical variables, collected at a baseline medical visit. Longitudinal differences in clinical variables were assessed at a 4-month follow-up telephone contact (n = 128). Three classes/phenotypes of persistent asthma were identified. Adolescents in class 1 (n = 87) were highly symptomatic at baseline and presented the highest number of unscheduled healthcare visits per month and exacerbations per month, both at baseline and follow-up. Class 2 (n = 32) was characterized by female predominance, more frequent obesity, and uncontrolled upper/lower airways symptoms at baseline. At follow-up, there was a significant increase in the proportion of controlled lower airway symptoms (p < 0.001). Class 3 (n = 43) included mostly males with controlled lower airways symptoms; at follow-up, while keeping symptom control, there was a significant increase in exacerbations/month (p = 0.015). We have identified distinct phenotypes of persistent asthma in adolescents with different patterns in longitudinal asthma-related outcomes, supporting the importance of profiling asthma phenotypes in predicting disease outcomes that might inform targeted interventions and reduce future risk.