A predictive model of perceived stress during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in university students Ecuadorians.

Background and objectives: The situation caused by the confinement due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the mobility restriction implemented by governments worldwide had a significant impact on people's routines. Stressors are known to increase emotional imbalance, uncertainty, and frustration in the general population. This study explores the factors that predispose to the risk of perceived stress from COVID-19 and determines the underlying mediating mechanisms in the Ecuadorian population. Method: The cross-sectional study an incidental non-probabilistic sample of n = 977 participating student volunteers from the four regions of the Republic of Ecuador (68.6% women and 31.4% men). Data on emotional regulation (ERQ), perceived stress (PSS), active procrastination (APS), diagnosis and symptoms related to COVID-19, social isolation, coexistence, and a sociodemographic questionnaire (biological sex, marital status, and age) were recruited. Statistical analysis was based on a structural equation model. Results: The risk of suffering perceived stress in the COVID-19 pandemic was higher for single women who have lived longer in social isolation, have lived with more people, have poor emotional regulation and high rates of procrastination. This structural model is similar in all Ecuadorian regions χ2 = 21.54 (p = 0.760), RMSEA = 0.001 (95%CI, 0.00-0.02), CFI = 0.998; TLI = 0.999; SRMR = 0.020. Discussion: Although our findings are consistent and revealing for the scientific community, the lack of discrimination of the data due to strict isolation measures, taken at different periods by the Ecuadorian government against positive cases of COVID-19, is discussed. The research was applied to the university population, it would be representative to extend the study to schools and colleges. Conclusion: We consider this work as a starting point for the creation of preventive models against perceived stress in the university environment in the event of health emergencies.

Identification of novel candidate targets for suppressing ovarian cancer progression through IL-33/ST2 axis components using the system biology approach.

Background: Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) of ovarian cancer (OvC) are the most prevalent element of the tumor microenvironment (TM). By promoting angiogenesis, immunological suppression, and invasion, CAFs speed up the growth of tumors by changing the extracellular matrix's structure and composition and/or initiating the epithelial cells (EPT). IL-33/ST2 signaling has drawn a lot of attention since it acts as a pro-tumor alarmin and encourages spread by altering TM. Methods: Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of the OvC tumor microenvironment were found in the GEO database, qRT-PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry, and their presence and changes in healthy and tumor tissue content were examined. Primary cultures of healthy fibroblasts and CAFs obtained from healthy and tumor tissues retrieved from OvC samples were used for in vitro and in vivo investigations. Cultured primary human CAFs were utilized to investigate the regulation and the IL-33/ST2 axis role in the inflammation reactions. Results: Although ST2 and IL-33 expression was detected in both epithelial (EPT) and fibroblast cells of ovarian cancer, they are more abundant in CAFs. Lipopolysaccharides, serum amyloid A1, and IL-1ß, the inflammatory mediators, could all induce IL-33 expression through NF-κB activation in human CAFs. In turn, via the ST2 receptor, IL-33 affected the production of IL-6, IL-1ß, and PTGS2 in human CAFs via the MAPKs-NF-κB pathway. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that IL-33/ST2 is affected by the interaction of CAFs and epithelial cells inside the tumor microenvironment. Activation of this axis leads to increased expression of inflammatory factors in tumor CAFs and EPT cells. Therefore, targeting the IL-33/ST2 axis could have potential value in the prevention of OvC progression.

Role of geopolitical risk, currency fluctuation, and economic policy on tourist arrivals: temporal analysis of BRICS economies.

The tourism industry is vulnerable to a range of economic and political factors, which can have both short-term and long-term impacts on tourist arrivals. The study aims to investigate the temporal dynamics of these factors and their impact on tourist arrivals. The method employed is a panel data regression analysis, using data from BRICS economies over a period of 1980-2020. The dependent variable is the number of tourist arrivals, while the independent variables are geopolitical risk, currency fluctuation, and economic policy. Control variables such as GDP, exchange rate, and distance to major tourist destinations are also included. The results show that geopolitical risk and currency fluctuation have a significant negative impact on tourist arrivals, while economic policy has a positive impact. The study also finds that the impact of geopolitical risk is stronger in the short term, while the impact of economic policy is stronger in the long term. Additionally, the study shows that the effects of these factors on tourist arrivals vary across BRICS countries. The policy implications of this study suggest that BRICS economies need to develop proactive economic policies that promote stability and encourage investment in the tourism industry.

Environmental impact of endocrine-disrupting chemicals and heavy metals in biological samples of petrochemical industry workers with perspective management.

Exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) or heavy metals are synthetic compounds that can lead to negative effect on health, including immune and endocrine system disruption, respiratory problems, metabolic issues, diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular problems, growth impairment, neurological and learning disabilities, and cancer. Petrochemical industry drilling wastes, which contain varying levels of EDCs, are known to pose a significant risk to human health. This study aimed to investigate the levels of toxic elements in biological samples of individuals working in the petrochemical drilling sites. Biological samples, including scalp hair and whole blood, were collected from petrochemical drilling workers, individuals residing in the same residential area, and control age-matched persons from nonindustrial areas. The samples were oxidized by an acid mixture before analysis using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The accuracy and validity of the methodology were verified through certified reference materials from scalp hair and whole blood. The results showed that the concentrations of toxic elements, such as cadmium and lead, were higher in biological samples of petrochemical drilling employees, while lower essential element levels (iron and zinc) were detected in their samples. This study highlights the significance of adopting better practices to reduce exposure to harmful substances and protect the health of petrochemical drilling workers and the environment. It also suggests that perspective management including policymakers and industry leaders should take measures to minimize exposure to EDCs and heavy metals to promote worker safety and public health. These measures could include the implementation of strict regulations and better occupational health practices to reduce toxic exposure and promote a safer work environment.

Factors increasing the risk for food addiction in Ecuadorian students.

Background: Food addiction (FA) is a construct that has gained interest in recent years, but its relevance in the Ecuadorian population has not yet been explored. The aims of this study were to explore the differences in the psychological profile (including FA) between university students from Ecuador and to identify the underlying structure of the relationships of the FA severity level through a mediational model. Methods: The sample consisted of 972 university students, women and men (mean age: 20.1 years old, SD = 2.6), recruited from four Ecuadorian regions. The assessment tools included a unidimensional scale of FA, eating-related measures, emotion regulation state, impulsivity, and psychopathology state. Path analysis modeled the direct and indirect effects explaining the FA severity level. Results: The results indicated that higher psychopathological levels were associated with FA. Similarly, no differences in FA were observed between the Ecuadorian regions. The path analysis suggested that older age, female sex, and higher difficulties in emotional regulation, impulsivity, negative mood, and anxiety trigger disordered eating; subsequently, more impaired eating behavior impacted the FA level. Conclusion: FA is a complex clinical entity that includes multiple components related to eating disorders (EDs) and other mental health problems. The results of this study provide empirical knowledge for designing evidence-based prevention and treatment strategies.

Mediating Mechanisms of Perfectionism: Clinical Comorbidity of OCD and ED.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and eating disorders (ED) share common causal factors and often represent similar entities. Studies on obsessive-compulsive disorders and eating disorders reveal a significant correlation between maladaptive perfectionism. The objective of this study is to evaluate the predictive variables of perfectionism in patients diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa (AN), Bulimia Nervosa (BN) and OCD using a structural equation model (SEM). The sample consisted of 187 participants (60.9% women, 39.1% men) with a mean age of 26.68 (SD = 10.97). The findings reveal that the model is the same in all the disorders evaluated, achieving an adequate fit: χ2 = 7.95 (p = 0.000), RMSEA = 0.087 (95% confidence interval: 0.00 to 0.02), CFI = 0.991, TLI = 0.951 and with an overall predictive capacity of around 30% (CD = 0.318). It is recommended that future studies address the subtypes of disorders evaluated using longitudinal designs.

Ecuadorian adaptation and validation of the Scale ofRisk Factors Associated with Eating Disorders (EFRATA)

El objetivo de este estudio fue adaptar y conocer la estructura factorial y la confiabilidad en la población ecuatoriana de la Escala EFRATA de Factores de Riesgo Asociados a los Trastornos de la Conducta Alimentaria. Se utilizó una muestra no probabilística de 1172 participantes (edad: M = 21.99; DT = 2.49; 58.6% mujeres y 41.4% hombres). El primer estudio de análisis paralelo identificó siete factores interpretables que explican el 50% de la varianza. El segundo estudio de análisis factorial confirmatorio indica un ajuste aceptable (GFI = 0.96; AGFI = 0.95; NFI = 0,94; RMR = 0.08). Los coeficientes de confiabilidad para el alfa de Cronbach y el omega de McDonald's fueron 0.89 y 0.90 respectivamente. La versión ecuatoriana de la EFRATA muestra buenas propiedades psicométricas y se adapta al contexto cultural de este país.(AU)

The objective of this study was to adapt and know the factorial structure and reliability in the Ecuadorian population of the EFRATA Scale of Risk Factors Associated with Eating Disorders. A non-probabilistic sample of 1172 participants were used (age: M= 21.99; SD= 2.49; 58.6% women and 41.4% men). The first parallel analysis study iden-tified seven interpretable factors that explain 50% of the variance. The second confirmatory factor analysis study indicates an acceptable fit (GFI = 0.96; AGFI = 0.95; NFI = 0.94; RMR = 0.08). The reliability coeffi-cients for Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's omega were 0.89 and 0.90 re-spectively. The Ecuadorian version of the EFRATA shows good psycho-metric properties and adapts to the cultural context of this country

The Role of Iron and Zinc in the Treatment of ADHD among Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder common from childhood to adulthood, affecting 5% to 12% among the general population in developed countries. Potential etiological factors have been identified, including genetic causes, environmental elements and epigenetic components. Nutrition is currently considered an influencing factor, and several studies have explored the contribution of restriction and dietary supplements in ADHD treatments. Iron is an essential cofactor required for a number of functions, such as transport of oxygen, immune function, cellular respiration, neurotransmitter metabolism (dopamine production), and DNA synthesis. Zinc is also an essential trace element, required for cellular functions related to the metabolism of neurotransmitters, melatonin, and prostaglandins. Epidemiological studies have found that iron and zinc deficiencies are common nutritional deficits worldwide, with important roles on neurologic functions (poor memory, inattentiveness, and impulsiveness), finicky appetite, and mood changes (sadness and irritability). Altered levels of iron and zinc have been related with the aggravation and progression of ADHD. OBJECTIVE: This is a systematic review focused on the contribution of iron and zinc in the progression of ADHD among children and adolescents, and how therapies including these elements are tolerated along with its effectiveness (according to PRISMA guidelines). METHOD: The scientific literature was screened for randomized controlled trials published between January 2000 to July 2021. The databases consulted were Medline, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Two independent reviewers screened studies, extracted data, and assessed quality and risk of bias (CONSORT, NICE, and Cochrane checklists used). CONCLUSION: Nine studies met the eligibility criteria and were selected. Evidence was obtained regarding the contribution of iron-zinc supplementation in the treatment of ADHD among young individuals. The discussion was focused on how the deficits of these elements contribute to affectation on multiple ADHD correlates, and potential mechanisms explaining the mediational pathways. Evidence also suggested that treating ADHD with diet interventions might be particularly useful for specific subgroups of children and adolescents, but further investigations of the effects of these diet interventions are needed.

A Brief Version of the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS): Validity Evidence in Ecuadorian Population.

Due to the scarcity of evaluation instruments on the construct of difficulties in emotional regulation in the Ecuadorian university context, the objective of the present study was to adapt linguistically and to study the psychometric properties of the Difficulty Scale in Emotional Regulation (DERS) in a sample of Ecuadorian university students. A non-probability sample of 1172 participants between 17 and 32 years of age (M = 21.99; DT = 2.49), which consisted of 58.6% women and 41.4% men, was used. The research was carried out in three stages. The first study evaluated the Ecuadorian linguistic adaptation of the scale. The second study referred to the factorization by main axes identifying five factors (Lack of emotional understanding; Limited access to regulation strategies; Difficulties in impulse control; Interferences in goal-directed behaviors; Lack of emotional clarity) theoretically interpretable, which explain 49.22% of the variance. The third study developed a confirmatory factor analysis that specified an acceptable fit of the model (GFI = .95; AGFI = .95; NFI = .94; RMR = .11). The reliability coefficients are acceptable as .90 Cronbach's alpha and .91 McDonald's omega. In conclusion, it is mentioned that the Ecuadorian version of the DERS in a university sample exhibits good psychometric characteristics of internal structure and responses.

Debido a la escasez de instrumentos de evaluación sobre el constructo de dificultades en la regulación emocional en el contexto universitario ecuatoriano, el objetivo del presente estudio fue adaptar lingüísticamente y estudiar las propiedades psicométricas de la Escala de dificultades en la regulación emocional (DERS) en una muestra de estudiantes universitarios ecuatorianos. Se empleó una muestra no probabilística de 1172 participantes de 17 a 32 años de edad (M = 21.99; DT = 2.49), de los cuales 58.6% eran mujeres y 41.4% hombres. La investigación se desplegó en tres etapas: el primer estudio desarrolló la adaptación lingüística ecuatoriana de la escala. El segundo estudio se refirió a la factorización por ejes principales identificando cinco factores (Falta de compresión emocional; Acceso limitado a estrategias de regulación; Dificultades en el control de impulsos; Interferencias en conductas dirigidas a metas; Falta de claridad emocional) interpretables teóricamente, que explican el 49.22% de la varianza. El tercer estudio desarrolló un análisis factorial confirmatorio, el cual indicó un ajuste aceptable del modelo (GFI = .95; AGFI = .95; NFI = .94; RMR = .11). Los coeficientes de fiabilidad se revelaron aceptables de .90 alfa de Cronbach y .91 omega de McDonald. Como conclusión se menciona que la versión ecuatoriana de la DERS en una muestra universitaria exhibe buenas características psicométricas de estructura interna y fiabilidad.