bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Therapists’ Views of Mechanisms of Change in Psychotherapy: A Mixed-Method Approach
Authors: Tzur Bitan Dana , Shalev Shani , Abayed Shiran
Published: April 2022

The question of what works in psychotherapy has been a subject of debate in the recent years, occupying both clinicians and researchers. In this study, we aimed to assess the current perspectives held by clinicians regarding the processes which produce changes in psychotherapy, as well as the predictors of specific views. Licensed therapists (n = 107), consisting mainly of psychodynamically and integratively oriented psychologists, were asked to write in their own words what they think works in psychotherapy. Thematic analysis was employed to assess the main mechanisms of change as perceived by the therapists. Differences in the prevalence of specific themes were assessed using Friedman and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Univariate logistic regressions were employed to assess the factors that predict the probability of reporting a specific mechanism of change. The results indicated that the therapeutic bond was the most highly reported mechanism of change, followed by theory-driven mechanisms of change, therapist characteristics, therapist professionalism, and client motivation. Male therapists were more likely to indicate the professionalism as a mechanism of change compared to female therapists. Higher education was associated with lower reports of therapists’ characteristics as the mechanisms of change. These results suggest that therapists acknowledge the importance of the working alliance, and that the perception of the mechanism of change is associated with various factors which comprise therapist orientation. Limitations and directions for future research are discussed.
Frequency Effects on Spelling Error Recognition: An ERP Study
Authors: Larionova Ekaterina V. , Martynova Olga V.
Published: April 2022

Spelling errors are ubiquitous in all writing systems. Most studies exploring spelling errors focused on the phonological plausibility of errors. However, unlike typical pseudohomophones, spelling errors occur in naturally produced written language. We investigated the time course of recognition of the most frequent orthographic errors in Russian (error in an unstressed vowel in the root) and the effect of word frequency on this process. During event-related potentials (ERP) recording, 26 native Russian speakers silently read high-frequency correctly spelled words, low-frequency correctly spelled words, high-frequency words with errors, and low-frequency words with errors. The amplitude of P200 was more positive for correctly spelled words than for misspelled words and did not depend on the frequency of the words. In addition, in the 350–500-ms time window, we found a more negative response for misspelled words than for correctly spelled words in parietal–temporal-occipital regions regardless of word frequency. Considering our results in the context of a dual-route model, we concluded that recognizing misspelled high-frequency and low-frequency words involves common orthographic and phonological processes associated with P200 and N400 components such as whole word orthography processing and activation of phonological representations correspondingly. However, at the 500–700 ms stage (associated with lexical-semantic access in our study), error recognition depends on the word frequency. One possible explanation for these differences could be that at the 500–700 ms stage recognition of high-frequency misspelled and correctly spelled words shifts from phonological to orthographic processes, while low-frequency misspelled words are accompanied by more prolonged phonological activation. We believe these processes may be associated with different ERP components P300 and N400, reflecting a temporal overlap between categorization processes based on orthographic properties for high-frequency words and phonological processes for low-frequency words. Therefore, our results complement existing reading models and demonstrate that the neuronal underpinnings of spelling error recognition during reading may depend on word frequency.
Risk Factors Associated With Social Media Addiction: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Zhao Jin , Jia Ting , Wang Xiuming , Xiao Yiming , Wu Xingqu
Published: April 2022

The use of social media is becoming a necessary daily activity in today’s society. Excessive and compulsive use of social media may lead to social media addiction (SMA). The main aim of this study was to investigate whether demographic factors (including age and gender), impulsivity, self-esteem, emotions, and attentional bias were risk factors associated with SMA. The study was conducted in a non-clinical sample of college students (N = 520), ranging in age from 16 to 23 years, including 277 females (53%) and 243 males (47%). All participants completed a survey measuring impulsivity, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, social anxiety, loneliness, and attentional bias. The final hierarchical regression model indicated significant risk factors for SMA with an accuracy of 38%. The identified set of associated risk factors included female gender (β = −0.21, t = −4.88, p < 0.001), impulsivity (β = 0.34, t = 8.50, p < 0.001), self-esteem (β = −0.20, t = −4.38, p < 0.001), anxiety (β = 0.24, t = 4.43, p < 0.001), social anxiety (β = 0.25, t = 5.79, p < 0.001), and negative attentional biases (β = 0.31, t = 8.01, p < 0.001). Finally, a discussion of the results is presented, followed by corresponding recommendations for future studies.
Spiritual Leadership and Job Engagement: The Mediating Role of Emotion Regulation
Authors: Huang Yicong
Published: April 2022

Big data era has brought big challenge for firms in human resource management, especially in employees‘ emotion. Drawing on emotion regulation and leadership theories, this study tests the mediating roles of emotion regulation for cognitive reappraisal and expressive suppression in the relationship between spiritual leadership and job engagement. We made a field survey with 203 full-time employees to test our hypotheses. Empirical results show that the mediating effects of both cognitive reappraisal and expressive suppression in accounting for the relationship between spiritual leadership and job engagement. Our study is among the first to examine whether and why spiritual leadership predicts job engagement. Our study contributes to the literatures on job engagement and emotion regulation.
For Sustainable Career Development: Framework and Assessment of the Employability of Business English Graduates
Authors: Tong Minjun , Gao Tianyue
Published: April 2022

Employability is an important indicator of the competency of the employees. Employability model is a useful analytical framework for studying the ever-changing relationship between higher education and the job market. At present, the demand for business English graduates is increasing, however, there is a skill gap between their educational readiness and the recruitment requirements. In order to solve this problem, this study adopted mixed methods research and carried out the research design according to the exploratory sequence design to construct an employability model for business English graduates. A 46-item scale was developed to measure the employability of business English graduates’ employability. After assessment, it was found that the employability of business English graduates was multi-dimensional, with three dimensions—professional knowledge, generic competencies, and career management and 10 sub-dimensions—English language skills, foreign trade competencies, computer and internet application skills, social skills, learning and development, personal traits, thinking ability, work ethics, career identity and planning, and service awareness. This study verified that the employability of business English graduates reached the standard of talent training and met the requirements of employers. There were employability differences in gender, places of origin and educational institutions. From this study, it could be inferred that cultivation of business English majors should be multi-dimensional.
Influencing Factors of International Students’ Anxiety Under Online Learning During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study of 1,090 Chinese International Students
Authors: Tan Yejun , Wu Zhijian , Qu Xiangnan , Liu Yuzhuo , Peng Lele , Ge Yan , Li Shu , Du Jinfeng , Tang Qi , Wang Jia , Peng Xiaofei , Liao Jiafen , Song Meiyan , Kang Jin
Published: April 2022

Objective

We conducted the following cross-sectional study to comprehensively assess the anxiety among Chinese international students who studied online during the COVID-19 pandemic and its influencing factors.

Methods

Questionnaires were distributed through “Sojump,” and a total of 1,090 valid questionnaires were collected. The questionnaire was divided into two parts: general situation and anxiety assessment of students. The former used a self-made questionnaire, and the international general GAD-7 scale was used to measure anxiety. Chi-square test was used to analyze the differences between groups, and logistic regression analysis was performed for the factors with differences.

Results

Anxiety was found in 707 (64.9%) of 1,090 international students. Chi-square test and multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that the incidence of anxiety was higher in the group under 22 years of age than in the group over 22 years of age (68% vs. 61%, p = 0.015; OR = 1.186, 95% CI 1.045–1.347, p = 0.008); International students living in big cities had a higher incidence of anxiety than those living in rural areas (67% vs. 60%, p = 0.022; OR = 1.419, 95%CI 1.038–1.859, p = 0.011); international students who socialized 3 times or less monthly had a higher incidence of anxiety than those who socialized more than 3 times per month (68% vs. 58%, p = 0.003; OR = 1.52, 95%CI 1.160–1.992, p = 0.002); international students who expected purely online teaching had a higher incidence of anxiety than those who expected purely offline teaching or dual-track teaching (72% vs. 64%, p = 0.037; OR = 1.525, 95%CI 1.069–2.177, p = 0.02); international students with a subjective score of online learning experience of 6 or less had a higher incidence of anxiety than those with subjective scores of more than 6 (70% vs. 60%, p = 0.001, OR = 1.25, 95%CI 1.099–1.422, p = 0.001). However, gender, emotional status, BMI, major of study, vaccination status, and degree type had no significant difference in the incidence of anxiety among international students who studied online during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusion

During COVID-19, international students who were younger, came from big cities, had low social frequency, expected purely online teaching, and had poor experience of online classes were risk factors for anxiety during online classes.
Metacognitions in Patients With Frequent Mental Disorders After Diagnosis of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Caldarone Flora , Gebhardt Philippa , Hoeper Marius M. , Olsson Karen M. , Fuge Jan , Park Da-Hee , Meltendorf Tanja , Kamp Jan C. , Stapel Britta , Richter Manuel J. , Gall Henning , Ghofrani Hossein A. , Kahl Kai G. , Heitland Ivo
Published: April 2022

Background

The prevalence of mental disorders, particularly adjustment disorder (AD), major depressive disorder (MDD) and panic disorder (PD) is increased in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). However, it is unclear which pathogenic mechanisms determine their development and could therefore be targeted in prevention or therapeutic interventions. Here, we assessed metacognitions in a sample of PAH patients with and without MDD and PD. Moreover, we reconstructed the course of mental illnesses following the PAH diagnosis.

Methods

Two hundred seventeen PAH patients were included in this cross-sectional study. The prevalence of AD was assessed retrospectively using DSM-V criteria. Current mental disorders were assessed using the structured clinical interview for DSM-V. Additionally, metacognitive beliefs and processes were assessed using established questionnaires (MCQ-30, AnTI).

Results

Patients with an AD consecutive to the PAH diagnosis more frequently developed MDD (37.5 vs. 13.9%, p < 0.001) and PD (26.3 vs. 8.8%, p = 0.001) later on compared to PAH patients without a former AD. Moreover, patients with current MDD/PD displayed more dysfunctional metacognitions than those without current MDD/PD (p < 0.001). Patients with current MDD/PD in the context of former AD had more dysfunctional metacognitive worries and beliefs compared to patients with current MDD/PD without former AD (p = 0.009).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that in the context of PAH, dysfunctional metacognitions are associated with MDD and PD. Therefore, a metacognitive approach to treat and prevent those mental illnesses seems promising and should be investigated in future studies.
Additive Manufacturing of Large Structures Using Free-Flying Satellites
Authors: Jonckers Declan , Tauscher Oliver , Thakur Aditya R. , Maywald Lasse
Published: April 2022

In-Space Manufacturing (ISM) is being investigated as a method for producing larger, cheaper, and more capable spacecraft and space stations. One of the most promising manufacturing techniques is additive manufacturing (AM) due to its inherent flexibility and low waste. The feasibility of a free-flying small spacecraft to manufacture large structures using a robotic arm with an AM end effector has been examined. These large structures would aid the construction of a large space station or spacecraft. Using the Experimental Lab for Proximity Operations and Space Situational Awareness (ELISSA) at the Institute of Space Systems at TU Braunschweig, a process has been designed and tested which is capable of producing structures with arbitrary length. This process was demonstrated by manufacturing support free truss elements of unlimited length using a free-floating mobile robot. Avenues for further extending the process to produce structures of any size in 3D space are discussed.
Commission for the Upper Cauca River Basin Recovery, Collaborative Governance for Sustainability and Water Security
Authors: Sánchez Torres Luis Dario , Galvis Castaño Alberto , Gandini Mario Andres , Almario Gloria , Montero Maria Victoria , Vergara María Virginia
Published: April 2022

Rivers are essential for life, there is an indissoluble relationship between the natural system and the human system. Aquatic ecosystems guarantee ecosystem services to the human system, on the other hand, the human system makes use of these services and as a result of this generates effects on the natural system. However, an over use of these services could adversely impact the natural system. Therefore, the recovery of rivers is a priority for the planet. This work describes the progress of the Commission for the recovery of the upper Cauca river basin as a collaborative governance for sustainability and water security in the region. The upper basin is between the Colombian massif in the department of Cauca and the municipality of Cartago in Valle del Cauca. It is an important natural, cultural, social, and economic resource of Colombia, but it presents a continuous deterioration of water availability, both in quantity and quality, limiting its use for human consumption and a reduction in biodiversity. This work shows that the Commission for the upper Cauca river basin recovery is a process in development. The Commission is an instance made up of public and private entities, which arises from the failure of the current model of water resource management in Colombia. The central problem is how to transcend short-term planning in administrations to long-term planning based on a shared vision. Collaborative governance is proposed as a recovery of the Cauca river based on the concept of bioculturality and the rights of nature, due to the deep relationship of unity between nature and the human species. The need to achieve a shared vision is highlighted, to act under the watershed vision with all the actors involved. In addition, minimal and conclusive indicators must be defined that society recognizes and that motivates it to advance in the recovery. The aquatic ecosystems recovery is a priority, understanding that the investments required for achieving this goal can also significantly contribute to sustainability and water security for the region.
Microwave Perspective on Magnetic Breakout Eruption
Authors: Lee Jeongwoo
Published: April 2022

Microwave maps may provide critical information on the flux rope interaction and the breakout eruption if their polarization is measured with high precision. We demonstrate this diagnostic capability using the 17 GHz maps from the Nobeyama Radioheliograph (NoRH) of a circular ribbon flare SOL2014-12-17T04:51. The EUV images from SDO/AIA and the coronal magnetic field extrapolated from the HMI magnetogram are also used to support the interpretation of the microwave data. The most obvious evidence for the breakout eruption comes from the sign change of the microwave polarization over the AR at heliographic coordinates S20E09, indicating change of the overlying fields from a closed fan structure to a spine-like structure. Another important piece of evidence comes from the spatial and temporal variations of quasi-periodic pulsations (QPP) detected at the 17 GHz. The QPP was more obvious in one loop leg before the eruption and later moved to the spine field region on and after the flare. This indicates that the oscillatory power is transferred from an interacting flux rope to the outer spine, along which the reconnection launches torsional Alfvén waves, in good agreement with MHD model predictions for breakout eruption. In the practical viewpoint, these two diagnostics work because microwave observations are free of saturation even in strong flaring regions.
Precise Localization in Craniotomy With a Retrosigmoid Keyhole Approach: Microsurgical Anatomy and Clinical Study
Authors: Jian Zhi-Heng , Sheng Min-Feng , Li Jia-Yan , Li Yu , Weng Zhi-Jian , Chen Gang
Published: April 2022

Objective

We aimed to explore a method of precise localization within craniotomy based on skull anatomical landmarks via the suboccipital retrosigmoid approach.

Method

Craniometric measurements were taken from 15 adult dry skulls and eight cadaver head specimens. In the anatomical study, the keypoint corresponded to the transverse-sigmoid sinus junction's corresponding point on the external surface of the temporal mastoid process, eight cadaveric heads underwent a simulated craniotomy using the suboccipital retrosigmoid approach. The center of the burr hole is precisely oriented 12 mm vertically above the top point of the mastoid groove based on the line between the infraorbital margin and the upper edge of the external auditory canal. Clinical application was verified in clinical surgery by evaluating the accuracy, safety, rapidity, and minimal invasiveness of the procedure in 29 patients.

Result

No venous sinus injuries were observed. Within clinical application, 29 patients underwent craniotomy using the suboccipital retrosigmoid approach. The operative area was clearly exposed in all patients and the microsurgical anatomy of the intracranial region after the dura mater incision was satisfactory. No venous sinus ruptures were observed. The average craniectomy time was 27.02 ± 0.86 min. The diameter of the bone window was 1.7–2.9 cm.

Conclusion

We conclude that the method can ensure safe, accurate, and rapid craniotomy with good vision while avoiding injury to the venous sinus.
Clinical Features and Endovascular Management of Iliac Arteriovenous Fistulas: A 10-Year Single Center Experience
Authors: Ji Lei , Gu Guangchao , Liu Zhili , Chen Yuexin , Ye Wei , Liu Bao , Liu Changwei , Zheng Yuehong
Published: April 2022

Objective

Iliac arteriovenous fistulas (IAVFs) are rare abnormalities with limited reported cases. This study aimed to summarize the clinical features and experiences on the diagnosis and endovascular treatment of IAVFs.

Methods

A single-center retrospective study of IAVFs from 2010 to 2019 was performed. Data including demographics, clinical characteristics, radiological images, surgical details, and follow-up were collected.

Results

A total of 16 patients diagnosed with IAVFs were identified. The female to male ratio was 3:1. The mean age was 47.7 ± 10.4 years (range: 35–73 years). Leg swelling and cardiac insufficiency, especially heart failure, were the most common primary symptoms in this series, which were revealed in 68.8 and 37.5% of patients, respectively. Iatrogenic, traumatic, and congenital IAVFs were diagnosed in 62.5, 12.5, and 25.0% of patients, respectively, among which hysterectomy was thought to be the main cause for female iatrogenic IAVFs (31.3%). Anatomic analysis found that internal iliac vessels were the predilected sites of IAVFs. All the patients were treated by endovascular procedures composed of transarterial embolization (50.0%), transarterial and stage II transvenous embolization (31.3%), stage I transarterial and transvenous embolization (12.5%), and transarterial embolization plus stent implantation (6.3%). The clinical success rate was 93.8%. Minor complications including fever (18.8%) and exudation at the puncture point (6.25%) were noted and well-treated. During a follow-up period of 51.3 ± 41.9 months after operations, only one patient experienced re-emergence of heart failure because of recurrence of leiomyosarcoma; other patients recovered uneventfully with symptoms relief and no severe embolization-related complications was encountered.

Conclusion

IAVFs are rare disorders and correct diagnosis requires careful history taking and physical examination, combined with proper imaging investigation. The primary goal for treatment of IAVFs was to relieve associated symptoms. Based on the results of this study, endovascular approach is safe and effective for treatment of IAVFs.
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy in a Patient With Situs Inversus Totalis Presenting With Cholelithiasis: A Case Report
Authors: He Tao , Zou Jieyu , Song Haiyu , Yi Bin , Sun Ke , Yang Juan , Lei Tingting , Xu Lin , Li Guangkuo
Published: April 2022

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the standard treatment for cholelithiasis. A very rare condition named situs inversus should not be considered as a contraindication for laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Here, we reported a case of successful laparoscopic cholecystectomy in a patient with situs inversus totalis. We also described the technical advantages of this treatment and reviewed the literature.
Maternal Paracetamol Intake During Pregnancy—Impacts on Offspring Reproductive Development
Authors: Tadokoro-Cuccaro Rieko , Fisher Benjamin G. , Thankamony Ajay , Ong Ken K. , Hughes Ieuan A.
Published: April 2022

Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is the preferred antipyretic/analgesic for pregnant women as it is believed there are no adverse fetal effects at the recommended dose. However, emerging evidence suggests that intrauterine paracetamol exposure may be associated with certain urogenital/reproductive disorders in the offspring. In this mini-review, we describe human fetal sex development and possible pharmacological mechanisms by which paracetamol may disrupt this process, including reduced testicular production of testosterone and/or insulin-like peptide 3. We then review the available epidemiological literature on associations between maternal paracetamol exposure and offspring sexual development. Three epidemiological studies have reported associations between maternal paracetamol intake and increased risk of cryptorchidism, although five others have not. None have found associations with hypospadias or penile length. Two out of three studies have reported a shorter anogenital distance (a marker of androgen action during the masculinisation programming window, ∼8–14 weeks of gestation) in male infants antenatally exposed to paracetamol. One study has described a dose-dependent relationship between maternal paracetamol consumption and earlier female (but not male) attainment of puberty. Such epidemiological analyses are complicated by various factors, including method of paracetamol exposure assessment (usually retrospective self-report), variation in diagnostic accuracy, selection bias, confounding by clinical indication, and demographic/genetic differences between geographically separated populations. There is an urgent need for stronger evidence in this area, from both relevant experimental studies and large, carefully-designed prospective studies. In the meantime, a precautionary attitude to gestational paracetamol usage should be considered as the evidence for clinically significant reproductive effects in humans is limited.
Correlation Between D-Dimer Concentrations and Thromboelastography in Dogs With Critical Illness: A Retrospective, Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Han Hyun-Jung , Kim Jung-Hyun
Published: April 2022

A hospital-based, retrospective, cross-sectional study was performed to assess the correlation of kaolin-activated thromboelastography (TEG) with D-dimer concentrations in 59 dogs with critical illness. Dogs were included if they had one or more serious disease detected upon performing TEG and D-dimer concentration determination based on the same blood sample. According to the coagulation index (CI), the 59 dogs were divided into two groups: a hypercoagulable state, with CI > 4 (44 dogs) and a normocoagulable state, with CI < 4 (15 dogs). Moreover, the 44 dogs with CI > 4 were divided into three sub-groups according to the disease etiology, i.e., inflammatory/tumor (I/T: 25 dogs), hemodynamic compromise (H: 11 dogs), and both conditions (I/TH: 8 dogs). The median values (interquartile ranges) of the CI and D-dimer concentration were 5.46 (4.55–6.33) and 410.25 (74.63–2206.12) in the 44 dogs with CI > 4 and 3.29 (2.92–3.75) and 1164.7 (50–2250.05) in the 15 dogs with CI < 4, respectively. The D-dimer concentration was significantly increased over the reference value in the 44 dogs with a CI > 4, particularly in dogs in the I/T group. It was also significantly increased in the 15 dogs with a CI < 4. D-dimer concentrations did not correlate with any of the TEG parameters in any of the dogs. Given this lack of correlation, the D-dimer concentration may be limited as an indicator of a possible hypercoagulable state in dogs with critical illness.
Isolation and Phylogenetic Analysis of a Hunnivirus Strain in Water Buffaloes From China
Authors: Liu Haifeng , Zhu Xinyue , Dong Qinting , Qiao Chengpeng , Luo Yuhang , Liu Yi , Zou Yanlin , Liu Huanghao , Wu Cuilan , Su Jieyu , Peng Hao , Ouyang Kang , Chen Ying , Li Jun , Wei Zuzhang , Huang Weijian
Published: April 2022

In recent years, hunniviruses have been reported in a variety of animal species from many countries. Here, hunnivirus was detected in fecal samples from water buffaloes and named as BufHuV-GX-2106. The samples were inoculated into cultures of MDBK cells supplemented with TPCK trypsin and the BufHuV-GX-2106 strain was stably passaged and replicated. Electron microscopic analysis showed the BufHuV-GX-2106 virus particles were spherical and 20~30 nm in diameter. The complete genome of a plaque purified sample of BufHuV-GX-2106 was determined and analyzed. Genomic analysis revealed that the whole sequence of BufHuV-GX-2106 was ~7,601 nucleotides (nt) in length and consisted of a large open reading frame of 6,759nt, a 5′UTR, a 3'UTR and a poly(A) tail. The complete genome sequence of BufHuV-GX-2106 shares 68-85% nucleotide identities with other known hunnivirus strains, indicating high genetic heterogeneity among these viruses. Phylogenetic analysis showed that BufHuV-GX-2106 belonged to the Hunnivirus A species and was more closely related to ovine hunnivirus than other known viruses of this type. This study describes the first isolation and complete genome sequence of a hunnivirus strain from water buffaloes. In addition, this study will help to understand the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of Hunnivirus A among different animal species.
Powdered Sugar Examination as a Tool for the Assessment of Paenibacillus larvae Infection Levels in Honey Bee Colonies
Authors: Bassi Stefano , Galletti Giorgio , Carpana Emanuele , Palminteri Stefano , Bosi Filippo , Loglio Giulio , Carra Elena
Published: April 2022

American Foulbrood (AFB) is a contagious and severe brood disease of honey bees caused by the spore-forming bacterium Paenibacillus larvae. The identification of honey bee colonies infected by P. larvae is crucial for the effective control of AFB. We studied the possibility of identifying the infection levels by P. larvae in honey bee colonies through the examination of powdered sugar samples collected in the hives. The powdered sugar was dusted on the top bars of honeycombs and collected from a sheet paper placed at the bottom of the hive. Three groups of honey bee colonies were examined: Group A1- colonies with clinical symptoms of AFB (n = 11); Group A2 – asymptomatic colonies located in apiaries with colonies showing symptoms of AFB (n = 59); Group B – asymptomatic colonies located in apiaries without cases of the disease (n = 49). The results showed that there was a significant difference in spore counting between Groups and that the spore load in sugar samples was always consistent with the clinical conditions of the colonies and with their belonging to AFB-affected apiaries or not. Based on the obtained results the cultural examination of powdered sugar samples collected from hives could be an effective tool for the quantitative non-destructive assessment of P. larvae infections in honey bee colonies.
Dietary Supplementation of Fructooligosaccharides Enhanced Antioxidant Activity and Cellular Immune Response in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Al-Surrayai Tahani , Al-Khalaifah Hanan
Published: April 2022

This study investigated the impact of various concentrations of fructooligosaccharides (FOS) prebiotic on the production performance, antioxidant status, and immune response of broiler chicken. The FOS was used at 0, 0.3, 0.5, and 0.7%. The cycle included 340 broilers distributed into 4 batteries, with 85 broiler chickens in each battery. There were 5 replicates with 17 broiler chickens each, and the analyses were triplicated. The studied parameters were production performance, antioxidant status, hematological measurements, cellular and humoral immune response, intestinal acidosis, intestinal microbial counts, and volatile fatty acid (VFA) level in the hindgut. Results showed that broiler chickens fed 0.7% of FOS had significantly higher body weight gain than the control group and the groups fed 0.3% and 0.5% of FOS. Supplementing broiler feed with FOS at all levels increased the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and reduced the malondialdehyde of the sera (P = 0.015 and 0.025, respectively). Liver catalase enzyme in the broiler chickens fed 0.5 and 0.7% of FOS was higher than that of the control group and the group fed 0.3% of FOS (P = 0.001). However, the liver MDA of the control group was higher than that of all the other groups (P = 0.031). The total WBC and heterophils % were the highest after supplementing broilers with 0.7% FOS (P = 0.004 and 0.003, respectively) at 3 wks of age. Conversely, lymphocytes and monocytes were the lowest for the 0.7% FOS group (P = 0.030 and 0.020, respectively). Dietary 0.05 and 0.7% of FOS induced the highest cellular response compared to the other treatments (P = 0.020). Thymus, bursa of Fabricious, and spleen weights were enhanced after FOS supplementation, which indicates a higher specific cellular response. To conclude, FOS prebiotic at all levels can be utilized safely to enhance the antioxidant activity and the cellular immune response of broiler chickens. Using 0.7% of FOS resulted in higher body weight of broilers. Accordingly, this amount of FOS is sufficient to reach the required results.
Pharmacokinetics and Tissue Residue Profiles of Enrofloxacin in Crucian Carp (Carassius auratus gibelio) Following Single and Multiple Oral Administration
Authors: Shan Qi , Huang Heqing , Zheng Guangming , Yin Yi , Zhu Xinping , Ma Lisha , Zhou Hao , Xie Wenping , Li Lichun , Liu Shugui , Wang Jingxin
Published: April 2022

The pharmacokinetics, tissue distribution, and elimination of enrofloxacin (ENR) and its metabolite ciprofloxacin (CIP) were investigated to the crucian carp (Carassius auratus gibelio) after single (20 mg/kg b. w.) and multiple oral administration (20 mg/kg b.w. one time daily for 5 days) at 28°C. The concentrations of ENR and CIP in the plasma and tested tissues (muscle/skin, liver, and kidney) were detected simultaneously by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and the pharmacokinetic data were analyzed with a non-compartmental model using WinNonLin 6.1 PK software (Pharsight Corporation, Mountain View, CA, USA). The pharmacokinetic characteristics of ENR in crucian carp exhibited slow absorption, wide tissue distribution, and long elimination half-life. In the single-dose group, the peak concentrations (Cmax) of ENR in the plasma, muscle/skin, liver, and kidney were 8.93 μg/mL, 13.9 μg/g, 31.2 μg/g, and 27.3 μg/g, respectively, observed at 3 h, 6 h, 1 h, and 3 h after dosing. The elimination half-lives (T1/2λz) of ENR in plasma, muscle/skin, liver, and kidney were calculated to be 67.4, 82.8, 94.4, and 114 h, respectively. In the multiple-dose group, the Cmaxof ENR in the plasma, muscle/skin, liver, and kidney were 18.4 μg/mL, 26.8 μg/g, 82.8 μg/g, and 74.5 μg/g, respectively, achieved at 3 h, 6 h, 1 h, and 1 h after the last dose. The T1/2λzof ENR in the plasma, muscle/skin, liver, and kidney were calculated to be 76.4 h, 91.5 h, 114 h, and 148 h, respectively. During the multiple-dose administration, significant accumulations of ENR and CIP were observed in the plasma and tissues of crucian carp, possibly due to their long elimination half-lives. In both dose groups, the AUC0−∞for both ENR and CIP followed the order of liver > kidney > muscle/skin > plasma. The finding suggested that the liver may play an important role in the metabolism of ENR. According to the calculated PK/PD indices of Cmax/minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and AUC24h/MIC, the multiple-dose regimen would be highly effective against pathogenic bacteria with a MIC value of ≤ 1.84 μg/ml. Depletion studies indicated that a withdrawal period of at least 29 or 32 days was necessary to guarantee food security after single or multiple oral gavage administration at 28°C.
Identification of Compounds With Antiviral Activity Against SARS-CoV-2 in the MMV Pathogen Box Using a Phenotypic High-Throughput Screening Assay
Authors: Coimbra Laís D. , Borin Alexandre , Fontoura Marina , Gravina Humberto D. , Nagai Alice , Shimizu Jacqueline Farinha , Bispo-dos-Santos Karina , Granja Fabiana , Oliveira Paulo S. L. , Franchini Kleber G. , Samby Kirandeep , Bruder Marjorie , Proença-Módena José Luiz , Trivella Daniela B. B. , Smetana Juliana H. C. , Cordeiro Artur T. , Marques Rafael Elias
Published: April 2022

Until December 2021, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused more than 5.5 million deaths. Vaccines are being deployed worldwide to mitigate severe disease and death, but continued transmission and the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants indicate that specific treatments against COVID-19 are still necessary. We screened 400 compounds from the Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV) Pathogen Box seeking for molecules with antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 by using a high-throughput screening (HTS) infection assay in Vero CCL81 cells. On resupply of 15 selected hit compounds, we confirmed that 7 of them presented a dose-dependent cytoprotective activity against SARS-CoV-2-induced cytopathic effect (CPE) in the micromolar range. They were validated in low-throughput infection assays using four different cell lines, including the human lung Calu-3 cell line. MMV000063, MMV024937, MMV688279, and MMV688991 reduced viral load in cell culture, assessed by RT-qPCR and viral plaque assay, while MMV688279 and MMV688991 (also known as nitazoxanide) were the most promising, reducing SARS-CoV-2 load by at least 100-fold at 20 µM in almost all cell types tested. Our results indicate that active anti-SARS-CoV-2 molecules exist within the repertoire of antiviral, antiparasitic and antimicrobial compounds available to date. Although the mode of action by which MMV688279 and MMV688991 reduce SARS-CoV-2 replication is yet unknown, the fact that they were active in different cell types holds promise not only for the discovery of new therapeutic targets, but also for the development of novel antiviral medicines against COVID-19.
Examining American Adult’s Mental Well and Ill-Being During the 2020 COVID-19 Pandemic Using a Self-Determination Theory Perspective
Authors: Jordan Lauren N. , Smith C. Veronica
Published: April 2022

Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic is an international health crisis that has caused unprecedented shifts in people’s environments and has threatened people’s wellbeing. The current study uses self-determination theory (SDT: 10) to understand how people were handling the pandemic, which proposes three basic psychological needs (autonomy, competence, and relatedness) are vital for human growth and thriving. Furthermore, we examined how people’s wellbeing and ill-being changed over the course of the pandemic.

Methods: A sample of 193 American adults from around the country reported on their need satisfaction and frustration as well as well and ill-being at three time periods during the pandemic (April 2020, late July/early August 2020, and late January/early February 2021).

Results: There was much variability in how people were handling the pandemic, but on average, wellbeing increased, and ill-being decreased over time. Consistent with SDT, the basic needs significantly predicted well and ill-being even during such unprecedented times of disruption.

Conclusion: Our results suggest that public health officials should help individuals to focus on autonomy, competence, and relatedness behaviors during times of upheaval.
Smoking Cessation, Weight Gain, and Risk for Type 2 Diabetes: A Prospective Study
Authors: Wu Lin , Wang Xiaowen , Dong Jia-Yi , Zhao Yan-Ting , Lou Hongqiang
Published: April 2022

Objectives: To examine the association between smoking cessation and risk of type 2 diabetes with emphasis on post-cessation weight gain.

Methods: In total, 8,951 participants from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study at the baseline (2011) were included. Diabetes incidence was accessed at the third survey (2015). Current smokers were treated as the reference and odds ratios (OR) of type 2 diabetes for never smokers, recent, and long-term quitters were computed using multivariable logistic regression. Stratified analysis was further conducted by weight gain after smoking cessation.

Results: There were 712 cases of type 2 diabetes identified. Compared with current smokers, the fully multivariable-adjusted ORs were 1.55 (1.02, 2.36) for recent quitters, 0.88 (0.61, 1.28) for long-term quitters, and 0.75 (0.59, 0.95) for never smokers. Stratified analysis showed recent quitters with weight gain of ≥2.0 kg had a significantly higher odds of type 2 diabetes [2.25 (1.02, 4.95)].

Conclusion: The present study of the Chinese population suggested recent quitters with weight gain of ≥2.0 kg, compared with current smokers, had a significantly increased odds of type 2 diabetes.
Interleukin-10 Mitigates Doxorubicin-Induced Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress as Well as Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Malik Akshi , Bagchi Ashim K. , Jassal Davinder S. , Singal Pawan K.
Published: April 2022

The use of doxorubicin (Dox) in cancer patients carries the risk of cardiotoxicity via an increase in oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and disturbed endoplasmic reticulum (ER) homeostasis in cardiomyocytes. The present study explores which of the ER transmembrane sensors is involved in Dox-induced apoptosis and whether interleukin-10 (IL-10) has any mitigating effect. There was a time-related increase in apoptosis in cardiomyocytes exposed to 5.43 µg/mL Dox for 0 to 48 h. Dox treatment for 24 h significantly upregulated glucose-regulated proteins 78 and 94, protein disulfide isomerase, cleavage of activating transcription factor 6α, and X-box binding protein 1. These Dox-induced changes in ER stress proteins as well as apoptosis were blunted by IL-10 (10 ng/mL). In Dox-exposed cardiomyocytes, IL-10 also promoted expression of protein kinase-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase and inositol-requiring kinase 1α, which helped in maintaining ER homeostasis. Additionally, under Dox-treatment, IL-10 downregulated caspase-12 activation as well as phosphorylation of c-JUN NH2-terminal kinase, thereby promoting cardiomyocyte survival. IL-10 was able to reduce the overexpression of mitochondrial apoptotic proteins caspase-3 as well as Bax, which were upregulated upon Dox treatment. Thus, a reduction in Dox-induced ER stress as well as apoptosis through IL-10 may provide a significant benefit in improving cardiac function.
CA-125 Levels Are Predictive of Survival in Low-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer—A Multicenter Analysis
Authors: Wohlmuth Christoph , Djedovic Vladimir , Kjaer Susanne K. , Jensen Allan , Glasspool Rosalind , Roxburgh Patricia , DeFazio Anna , Johnatty Sharon E. , Webb Penelope M. , Modugno Francesmary , Lambrechts Diether , Schildkraut Joellen M. , Berchuck Andrew , Thomsen Liv Cecilie Vestrheim , Bjorge Line , Høgdall Estrid , Høgdall Claus K. , Goode Ellen L. , Winham Stacey J. , Matsuo Keitaro , Karlan Beth Y. , Lester Jenny , Goodman Marc T. , Thompson Pamela J. , Pejovic Tanja , Riggan Marjorie J. , Lajkosz Katherine , Tone Alicia , May Taymaa
Published: April 2022

Objective: Studies on low-grade serous ovarian cancer (LGSC) are limited by a low number of cases. The aim of this study was to define the prognostic significance of age, stage, and CA-125 levels on survival in a multi-institutional cohort of women with pathologically confirmed LGSC. Methods: Women with LGSC were identified from the collaborative Ovarian Cancer Association Consortium (OCAC). Cases of newly diagnosed primary LGSC were included if peri-operative CA-125 levels were available. Age at diagnosis, FIGO stage, pre- and post-treatment CA-125 levels, residual disease, adjuvant chemotherapy, disease recurrence, and vital status were collected by the participating institutions. Progression-free (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were calculated. Multivariable (MVA) Cox proportional hazard models were used and hazard ratios (HR) calculated. Results: A total of 176 women with LGSC were included in this study; 82% had stage III/IV disease. The median PFS was 2.3 years and the median OS was 6.4 years. Age at diagnosis was not significantly associated with worse PFS (p = 0.23) or OS (p = 0.3) (HR per year: 0.99; 95%CI, 0.96–1.01 and 0.98; 95%CI 0.95–1.01). FIGO stage III/IV was independently associated with PFS (HR 4.26, 95%CI 1.43–12.73) and OS (HR 1.69, 95%CI 0.56–5.05). Elevated CA-125 (≥35 U/mL) at diagnosis was not significantly associated with worse PFS (p = 0.87) or OS (p = 0.78) in MVA. Elevated CA-125 (≥35 U/mL) after completion of primary treatment was independently associated with worse PFS (HR 2.81, 95%CI 1.36–5.81) and OS (HR 6.62, 95%CI 2.45–17.92). In the MVA, residual disease was independently associated with PFS (0.022), but not OS (0.85). Conclusion: Advanced LGSC was associated with poor long-term prognosis. FIGO stage and abnormal post-treatment CA-125 level are key prognostic factors inversely associated with PFS and OS. Highlights: 1. Through a multi-center collaborative effort, data from 176 women with low-grade serous ovarian cancer were analyzed. 2. Although low-grade serous ovarian cancer is often considered indolent, the progression-free and overall survival are poor. 3. Elevated post-treatment CA-125 levels are independently associated with poor survival.
Immunogenicity of COVID-19 Vaccinations in Hematological Patients: 6-Month Follow-Up and Evaluation of a 3rd Vaccination
Authors: Schubert Lorenz , Koblischke Maximilian , Schneider Lisa , Porpaczy Edit , Winkler Florian , Jaeger Ulrich , Blüml Stephan , Haslacher Helmuth , Burgmann Heinz , Aberle Judith H. , Winkler Stefan , Tobudic Selma
Published: April 2022

Here we analyzed SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies and T-cell responses after two coronavirus disease 2019 vaccinations over a six-month period in patients with hematological malignancies and assessed the effect of a third vaccination in a subgroup. Sixty-six patients and 66 healthy controls were included. After two vaccinations seroconversion was seen in 52% and a T-cell-specific response in 59% of patients compared with 100% in controls (p = 0.001). Risk factors for a poor serological response were age (<65a), history of anti-CD20 therapy within the year preceding vaccination, CD19+ B-cells < 110/µL, and CD4+ T-cells > 310/µL. The magnitude of T-cell response was higher in patients <65a and with CD19+ B-cells < 110/µL. Patients and healthy controls demonstrated a significant decrease in SARS-CoV-2 S antibody levels over the period of six months (p < 0.001). A third vaccination demonstrated a strong serological response in patients who had responded to the previous doses (p < 0.001). The third vaccination yielded seroconversion in three out of 19 patients in those without serological response. We conclude that both humoral and cellular responses after SARS-CoV-2 immunization are impaired in patients with hematological malignancies. A third vaccination enhanced B-cell response in patients who previously responded to the second vaccination but may be of limited benefit in patients without prior seroconversion.
Combined Alcohol Exposure and KRAS Mutation in Human Pancreatic Ductal Epithelial Cells Induces Proliferation and Alters Subtype Signatures Determined by Multi-Omics Analysis
Authors: Clement Emalie J. , Law Henry C.-H. , Qiao Fangfang , Noe Dragana , Trevino Jose G. , Woods Nicholas T.
Published: April 2022

Pancreatic Ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive cancer commonly exhibiting KRAS-activating mutations. Alcohol contributes to the risk of developing PDAC in humans, and murine models have shown alcohol consumption in the context of KRAS mutation in the pancreas promotes the development of PDAC. The molecular signatures in pancreas cells altered by alcohol exposure in the context of mutant KRAS could identify pathways related to the etiology of PDAC. In this study, we evaluated the combined effects of alcohol exposure and KRAS mutation status on the transcriptome and proteome of pancreatic HPNE cell models. These analyses identified alterations in transcription and translational processes in mutant KRAS cells exposed to alcohol. In addition, multi-omics analysis suggests an increase in the correlation between mRNA transcript and protein abundance in cells exposed to alcohol with an underlying KRAS mutation. Through differential co-expression, SERPINE1 was found to be influential for PDAC development in the context of mutant KRAS and ethanol. In terms of PDAC subtypes, alcohol conditioning of HPNE cells expressing mutant KRAS decreases the Inflammatory subtype signature and increases the Proliferative and Metabolic signatures, as we previously observed in patient samples. The alterations in molecular subtypes were associated with an increased sensitivity to chemotherapeutic agents gemcitabine, irinotecan, and oxaliplatin. These results provide a framework for distinguishing the molecular dysregulation associated with combined alcohol and mutant KRAS in a pancreatic cell line model.
Pediatric Palliative Care in Oncology: Basic Principles
Authors: Benini Franca , Avagnina Irene , Giacomelli Luca , Papa Simonetta , Mercante Anna , Perilongo Giorgio
Published: April 2022

About 4 million children with an oncological disease worldwide require pediatric palliative care (PPC) due to the nature of their condition. PPC is not limited to end-of-life care; it is a general approach continuing over the entire disease trajectory, regardless of whether the patient receives any oncological treatment. This review addresses the value of integrating PPC in treating children with cancer, focusing on the basic principles of PPC and its application in pediatric oncology. Moreover, models for PPC implementation in oncology, end-of-life care, and advanced care planning are discussed.