bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Agricultural Soils Amended With Thermally-Dried Anaerobically-Digested Sewage Sludge Showed Increased Risk of Antibiotic Resistance Dissemination
Authors: Jauregi Leire , Epelde Lur , Alkorta Itziar , Garbisu Carlos
Published: April 2021

The application of sewage sludge (SS) to agricultural soil can help meet crop nutrient requirements and enhance soil properties, while reusing an organic by-product. However, SS can be a source of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and mobile genetic elements (MGEs), resulting in an increased risk of antibiotic resistance dissemination. We studied the effect of the application of thermally-dried anaerobically-digested SS on (i) soil physicochemical and microbial properties, and (ii) the relative abundance of 85 ARGs and 10 MGE-genes in soil. Soil samples were taken from a variety of SS-amended agricultural fields differing in three factors: dose of application, dosage of application, and elapsed time after the last application. The relative abundance of both ARGs and MGE-genes was higher in SS-amended soils, compared to non-amended soils, particularly in those with a more recent SS application. Some physicochemical parameters (i.e., cation exchange capacity, copper concentration, phosphorus content) were positively correlated with the relative abundance of ARGs and MGE-genes. Sewage sludge application was the key factor to explain the distribution pattern of ARGs and MGE-genes. The 30 most abundant families within the soil prokaryotic community accounted for 66% of the total variation of ARG and MGE-gene relative abundances. Soil prokaryotic α-diversity was negatively correlated with the relative abundance of ARGs and MGE-genes. We concluded that agricultural soils amended with thermally-dried anaerobically-digested sewage sludge showed increased risk of antibiotic resistance dissemination.
Long Non-coding RNA XIST Attenuates Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy by Inducing Autophagy Through MicroRNA-30d-5p/sirtuin1 Axis
Authors: Liu Bei-Yan , Li Lin , Bai Li-Wei , Xu Chang-Shui
Published: April 2021

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a prevalent diabetes mellitus (Feldman et al., 2017) complication and the primary reason for amputation. Meanwhile, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a type of regulatory non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that broadly participate in DPN development. However, the correlation of lncRNA X-inactive specific transcript (XIST) with DPN remains unclear. In this study, we were interested in the role of XIST in the modulation of DPN progression. Significantly, our data showed that the expression of XIST and sirtuin1 (SIRT1) was inhibited, and the expression of microRNA-30d-5p (miR-30d-5p) was enhanced in the trigeminal sensory neurons of the diabetic mice compared with the normal mice. The levels of LC3II and Beclin-1 were inhibited in the diabetic mice. The treatment of high glucose (HG) reduced the XIST expression in Schwann cells. The apoptosis of Schwann cells was enhanced in the HG-treated cells, but the overexpression of XIST could block the effect in the cells. Moreover, the levels of LC3II and Beclin-1 were reduced in the HG-treated Schwann cells, while the overexpression of XIST was able to reverse this effect. The HG treatment promoted the production of oxidative stress, while the XIST overexpression could attenuate this result in the Schwann cells. Mechanically, XIST was able to sponge miR-30d-5p and miR-30d-5p-targeted SIRT1 in the Schwann cells. MiR-30d-5p inhibited autophagy and promoted oxidative stress in the HG-treated Schwann cells, and SIRT1 presented a reversed effect. MiR-30d-5p mimic or SIRT1 depletion could reverse XIST overexpression-mediated apoptosis and autophagy of the Schwann cells. Thus, we concluded that XIST attenuated DPN by inducing autophagy through miR-30d-5p/SIRT1 axis. XIST and miR-30d-5p may be applied as the potential targets for DPN therapy.
Effective Connectivity During Rest and Music Listening: An EEG Study on Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Maggioni Eleonora , Arienti Federica , Minella Stella , Mameli Francesca , Borellini Linda , Nigro Martina , Cogiamanian Filippo , Bianchi Anna Maria , Cerutti Sergio , Barbieri Sergio , Brambilla Paolo , Ardolino Gianluca
Published: April 2021

Music-based interventions seem to enhance motor, sensory and cognitive functions in Parkinson’s disease (PD), but the underlying action mechanisms are still largely unknown. This electroencephalography (EEG) study aimed to investigate the effective connectivity patterns characterizing PD in the resting state and during music listening. EEG recordings were obtained from fourteen non-demented PD patients and 12 healthy controls, at rest and while listening to three music tracks. Theta- and alpha-band power spectral density and multivariate partial directed coherence were computed. Power and connectivity measures were compared between patients and controls in the four conditions and in music vs. rest. Compared to controls, patients showed enhanced theta-band power and slightly enhanced alpha-band power, but markedly reduced theta- and alpha-band interactions among EEG channels, especially concerning the information received by the right central channel. EEG power differences were partially reduced by music listening, which induced power increases in controls but not in patients. Connectivity differences were slightly compensated by music, whose effects largely depended on the track. In PD, music enhanced the frontotemporal inter-hemispheric communication. Our findings suggest that PD is characterized by enhanced activity but reduced information flow within the EEG network, being only partially normalized by music. Nevertheless, music capability to facilitate inter-hemispheric communication might underlie its beneficial effects on PD pathophysiology and should be further investigated.
Transient Inactivation of the Medial Prefrontal Cortex and Ventral Hippocampus Impairs Active Place Avoidance Retrieval on a Rotating Arena
Authors: Cernotova Daniela , Stuchlik Ales , Svoboda Jan
Published: April 2021

It is well known that communication between the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and the ventral hippocampus (vHPC) is critical for various cognitive and behavioral functions. However, the exact role of these structures in spatial coordination remains to be clarified. Here we sought to determine the involvement of the mPFC and the vHPC in the spatial retrieval of a previously learned active place avoidance task in adult male Long-Evans rats, using a combination of unilateral and bilateral local muscimol inactivations. Moreover, we tested the role of the vHPC-mPFC pathway by performing combined ipsilateral and contralateral inactivations. Our results showed not only bilateral inactivations of either structure, but also the combined inactivations impaired the retrieval of spatial memory, whereas unilateral one-structure inactivations did not yield any effect. Remarkably, muscimol injections in combined groups exerted similar deficits, regardless of whether the inactivations were contralateral or ipsilateral. These findings confirm the importance of these structures in spatial cognition and emphasize the importance of the intact functioning of the vHPC-mPFC pathway.
Subsequent Acupuncture Reverses the Aftereffects of Intermittent Theta-Burst Stimulation
Authors: He Xiao-Kuo , Liu Hui-Hua , Chen Shan-Jia , Sun Qian-Qian , Yu Guo , Lei Lei , Niu Zhen-Yuan , Chen Li-Dian , Hsieh Tsung-Hsun
Published: April 2021

Objective

This study explored whether acupuncture affects the maintenance of long-term potentiation (LTP)-like plasticity induced by transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and the acquisition of motor skills following repetitive sequential visual isometric pinch task (SVIPT) training.

Methods

Thirty-six participants were recruited. The changes in the aftereffects induced by intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS) and followed acupuncture were tested by the amplitude motor evoked potential (MEP) at pre-and-post-iTBS for 30 min and at acupuncture-in and -off for 30 min. Secondly, the effects of acupuncture on SVIPT movement in inducing error rate and learning skill index were tested.

Results

Following one session of iTBS, the MEP amplitude was increased and maintained at a high level for 30 min. The facilitation of MEP was gradually decreased to the baseline level during acupuncture-in and did not return to a high level after needle extraction. The SVIPT-acupuncture group had a lower learning skill index than those in the SVIPT group, indicating that acupuncture intervention after SVIPT training may restrain the acquisition ability of one’s learning skills.

Conclusion

Acupuncture could reverse the LTP-like plasticity of the contralateral motor cortex induced by iTBS. Subsequent acupuncture may negatively affect the efficacy of the acquisition of learned skills in repetitive exercise training.
Longer and Deeper Desaturations Are Associated With the Worsening of Mild Sleep Apnea: The Sleep Heart Health Study
Authors: Karhu Tuomas , Myllymaa Sami , Nikkonen Sami , Mazzotti Diego R. , Töyräs Juha , Leppänen Timo
Published: April 2021

Study Objectives

Obesity, older age, and male sex are recognized risk factors for sleep apnea. However, it is unclear whether the severity of hypoxic burden, an essential feature of sleep apnea, is associated with the risk of sleep apnea worsening. Thus, we investigated our hypothesis that the worsening of sleep apnea is expedited in individuals with more severe desaturations.

Methods

The blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) signals of 805 Sleep Heart Health Study participants with mild sleep apnea [5 ≤ oxygen desaturation index (ODI) < 15] were analyzed at baseline and after a mean follow-up time of 5.2 years. Linear regression analysis, adjusted for relevant covariates, was utilized to study the association between baseline SpO2-derived parameters and change in sleep apnea severity, determined by a change in ODI. SpO2-derived parameters, consisting of ODI, desaturation severity (DesSev), desaturation duration (DesDur), average desaturation area (avg. DesArea), and average desaturation duration (avg. DesDur), were standardized to enable comparisons between the parameters.

Results

In the group consisting of both men and women, avg. DesDur (β = 1.594, p = 0.001), avg. DesArea (β = 1.316, p = 0.004), DesDur (β = 0.998, p = 0.028), and DesSev (β = 0.928, p = 0.040) were significantly associated with sleep apnea worsening, whereas ODI was not (β = −0.029, p = 0.950). In sex-stratified analysis, avg. DesDur (β = 1.987, p = 0.003), avg. DesArea (β = 1.502, p = 0.024), and DesDur (β = 1.374, p = 0.033) were significantly associated with sleep apnea worsening in men.

Conclusion

Longer and deeper desaturations are more likely to expose a patient to the worsening of sleep apnea. This information could be useful in the planning of follow-up monitoring or lifestyle counseling in the early stage of the disease.
Radiation-Induced Soft Tissue Injuries in Patients With Advanced Mandibular Osteoradionecrosis: A Preliminary Evaluation and Management of Various Soft Tissue Problems Around Radiation-Induced Osteonecrosis Lesions
Authors: Ma Chunyue , Gao Weijin , Liu Zhonglong , Zhu Dan , Zhu Fengshuo , Li Xiaoguang , He Yue
Published: April 2021

Objectives

Radiation-induced soft-tissue injuries (STIs) in mandibular osteoradionecrosis (ORN) are not well studied regarding their correlations with nearby bone lesions. The aim of this study is to investigate the severity of radiation-induced STIs in advanced mandibular ORN and its relationship with hard-tissue damage and postoperative outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed in our institution from January 2017 to December 2019. Aside from demographic factors, the associations between the triad ORN variables (irradiation doses, ORN stages, ORN sizes) and radiation-related STI factors, vascular characteristics, and postoperative functional recovery were assessed. In addition, the severity of STI was also compared with treatment outcomes. Such correlations were established via both univariate and multivariable analyses.

Results

A total number of 47 patients were included. The median follow-up reached 27 months. Nasopharyngeal cancer was the histology type among most patients (n = 21, 44.7%). The median irradiation doses reached 62 Gy (range, 40–110 Gy). For STI, the symptom scoring equaled an average of 5.4 (range from 1 to 12), indicative of the severity of STI problems. During preoperative MRI examinations, signs of hypertrophy or edema (n = 41, 87.2%) were frequently discerned. Most patients (n = 23, 48.9%) also had extensive muscular fibrosis and infection, which required further debridement and scar release. Surprisingly, most STI factors, except cervical fibrosis (p = 0.02), were not in parallel with the ORN levels. Even the intraoperative soft-tissue defect changes could not be extrapolated by the extent of ORN damage (p = 0.096). Regarding the outcomes, a low recurrence rate (n = 3, 6.9%) was reported. In terms of soft tissue-related factors, we found a strong correlation (p = 0.004) between symptom scores and recurrence. In addition, when taking trismus into consideration, both improvements in mouth-opening distance (p < 0.001) and facial contour changes (p = 0.004) were adversely affected. Correlations were also observed between the intraoperative soft-tissue defect changes and complications (p = 0.024), indicative of the importance of STI evaluation and management.

Conclusions

The coexistence of hard- and soft-tissue damage in radiation-induced advanced mandibular ORN patients reminds surgeons of the significance in assessing both aspects. It is necessary to take the same active measures to evaluate and repair both severe STIs and ORN bone lesions.
Consolidative Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation After CD19 CAR-T Cell Therapy for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Xu Xinjie , Chen Sifei , Zhao Zijing , Xiao Xinyi , Huang Shengkang , Huo Zhaochang , Li Yuhua , Tu Sanfang
Published: April 2021

Background

This study aimed to systematically evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety of consolidative hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) after CD19 chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) therapy with non-HSCT in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

Methods

The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and Web of Science databases were searched for clinical trials. Pooled hazard ratios (HRs) for overall survival (OS), relapse rate, and leukemia-free survival (LFS) as well as overall incidence rates for transplant-related mortality (TRM), acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD), chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD), and infections were calculated using Stata software.

Results

We screened 3,441 studies and identified 19 eligible studies with 690 patients. Among the patients who achieved complete remission (CR) after CD19 CAR-T therapy, consolidative HSCT was beneficial for OS (HR = 0.34, 95% CI, 0.17–0.68, P = 0.003), the relapse rate (HR = 0.16, 95% CI, 0.10–0.25, P < 0.001), and LFS (HR = 0.15, 95% CI, 0.08–0.28, P < 0.001). For patients who achieved MRD-negative (neg) CR after CD19 CAR-T therapy, consolidative HSCT was beneficial for OS (0.57, 95% CI, 0.33–0.99, P = 0.045), the relapse rate (0.14, 95% CI, 0.06–0.31, P < 0.001), and LFS (0.21, 95% CI, 0.12–0.35, P < 0.001). Regarding safety, we calculated pooled incidence rates for TRM (8%, 95% CI, 0.02–0.15), aGVHD (44%, 95% CI, 0.23–0.67), cGVHD (36%, 95% CI, 0.17–0.56), and infections (39%, 95% CI, 0.03–0.83).

Conclusions

Compared with non-HSCT treatment, consolidative HSCT after CD19 CAR-T therapy for R/R B-ALL patients can prolong OS and LFS and reduce the risk of relapse. The incidence rates for adverse events are acceptable. More high-quality randomized controlled trials are required to avoid bias and further determine the efficacy of HSCT.
Biophysical Compatibility of a Heterotrimeric Tyrosinase-TYRP1-TYRP2 Metalloenzyme Complex
Authors: Lavinda Olga , Manga Prashiela , Orlow Seth J. , Cardozo Timothy
Published: April 2021

Tyrosinase (TYR) is a copper-containing monooxygenase central to the function of melanocytes. Alterations in its expression or activity contribute to variations in skin, hair and eye color, and underlie a variety of pathogenic pigmentary phenotypes, including several forms of oculocutaneous albinism (OCA). Many of these phenotypes are linked to individual missense mutations causing single nucleotide variants and polymorphisms (SNVs) in TYR. We previously showed that two TYR homologues, TYRP1 and TYRP2, modulate TYR activity and stabilize the TYR protein. Accordingly, to investigate whether TYR, TYRP1, and TYRP2 are biophysically compatible with various heterocomplexes, we computationally docked a high-quality 3D model of TYR to the crystal structure of TYRP1 and to a high-quality 3D model of TYRP2. Remarkably, the resulting TYR-TYRP1 heterodimer was complementary in structure and energy with the TYR-TYRP2 heterodimer, with TYRP1 and TYRP2 docking to different adjacent surfaces on TYR that apposed a third realistic protein interface between TYRP1-TYRP2. Hence, the 3D models are compatible with a heterotrimeric TYR-TYRP1-TYRP2 complex. In addition, this heterotrimeric TYR-TYRP1-TYRP2 positioned the C-terminus of each folded enzymatic domain in an ideal position to allow their C-terminal transmembrane helices to form a putative membrane embedded three-helix bundle. Finally, pathogenic TYR mutations causing OCA1A, which also destabilize TYR biochemically, cluster on an unoccupied protein interface at the periphery of the heterotrimeric complex, suggesting that this may be a docking site for OCA2, an anion channel. Pathogenic OCA2 mutations result in similar phenotypes to those produced by OCA1A TYR mutations. While this complex may be difficult to detect in vitro, due to the complex environment of the vertebrate cellular membranous system, our results support the existence of a heterotrimeric complex in melanogenesis.
Sodium Monoiodoacetate Dose-Dependent Changes in Matrix Metalloproteinases and Inflammatory Components as Prognostic Factors for the Progression of Osteoarthritis
Authors: Bryk Marta , Chwastek Jakub , Mlost Jakub , Kostrzewa Magdalena , Starowicz Katarzyna
Published: April 2021

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that primarily affects people over 65 years old. During OA progression irreversible cartilage, synovial membrane and subchondral bone degradation is observed, which results in the development of difficult-to-treat chronic pain. One of the most important factors in OA progression is joint inflammation. Both proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory factors, as well as extracellular matrix degradation enzymes (matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), play an important role in disease development. One of the most widely used animal OA models involves an intra-articular injection of sodium monoiodoacetate (MIA) directly into the joint capsule, which results in glycolysis inhibition in chondrocytes and cartilage degeneration. This model mimics the degenerative changes observed in OA patients. However, the dose of MIA varies in the literature, ranging from 0.5 to 4.8 mg. The aim of our study was to characterize grading changes after injection of 1, 2 or 3 mg of MIA at the behavioral and molecular levels over a 28-day period. In the behavioral studies, MIA injection at all doses resulted in a gradual increase in tactile allodynia and resulted in abnormal weight bearing during free walking sequences. At several days post-OA induction, cartilage, synovial membrane and synovial fluid samples were collected, and qPCR and Western blot analyses were performed. We observed significant dose- and time-dependent changes in both gene expression and protein secretion levels. Inflammatory factors (CCL2, CXCL1, IL-1β, COMP) increased at the beginning of the experiment, indicating a transient inflammatory state connected to the MIA injection and, in more severe OA, also in the advanced stages of the disease. Overall, the results in the 1 mg MIA group were not consistently clear, indicating that the lowest tested dose may not be sufficient to induce long-lasting OA-like changes at the molecular level. In the 2 mg MIA group, significant alterations in the measured factors were observed. In the 3 mg MIA group, MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-9, and MMP-13 levels showed very strong upregulation, which may cause overly strong reactions in animals. Therefore, a dose of 2 mg appears optimal, as it induces significant but not excessive OA-like changes in a rat model.
A Quantitative Serum Proteomic Analysis Helps to Explore the Comprehensive Mechanism and Identify Serum Biomarkers of Shengmai Injection’s Effect on Isoproterenol-Induced Myocardial Ischemia in Rats
Authors: Zhang Xiaoping , Zhang Jie , Ji Xiangyu , Wei Zhenzhen , Ding Baoyue , Liu Guoqiang , Lv Xiaoqing , Zheng Yongxia , Zhan Shuyu
Published: April 2021

Shengmai injection (SMI), a traditional Chinese medicine formula with the nature of multicomponent and multi-target, has been widely used in clinic for treating cardiovascular diseases in China; however, its comprehensive mechanism of action remains unclear. In this study, a TMT-based quantitative serum proteomics was performed to explore SMI’s global mechanism and help identify serum biomarkers of its effect on isoproterenol (ISO)-induced myocardial ischemia rats. The results of TMT-based proteomic analysis identified 227, 100, and 228 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) for the model compared to the control group, SMI pretreatment + model compared to the model group, and SMI pretreatment + model compared to the control group, respectively. Based on bioinformatics analyses of gene ontology (GO), KEGG pathways, and the protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks for the DEPs, it is concluded that the comprehensive mechanism of SMI’s effect on ISO-induced myocardial ischemia injury includes regulation of energy metabolism, reducing endothelial cell permeability, regulation of vessel and cardiac contractility, anti-inflammation, and prevention of cell apoptosis. Furthermore, 10 common DEPs were found, and six of them were regulated in model vs. control group, while back-regulated in SMI pretreatment + model vs. model group. Among them, three functional proteins of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), Fas apoptotic inhibitory molecule 3 (FAIM3), and uncharacterized protein (M0R5J4), which were verified by the PRM analysis, might be the potential serum biomarkers on SMI’s effects. Overall, this serum proteomics of SMI not only provides insights into the comprehensive mechanism underlying SMI’s effects on ischemic heart disease but also helps identify serum biomarkers for directing SMI’s cardioprotective effects.
Concurrent Assessment of Deformability and Adhesiveness of Sickle Red Blood Cells by Measuring Perfusion of an Adhesive Artificial Microvascular Network
Authors: Lu Madeleine , Kanne Celeste K. , Reddington Riley C. , Lezzar Dalia L. , Sheehan Vivien A. , Shevkoplyas Sergey S.
Published: April 2021

Biomarker development is a key clinical research need in sickle cell disease (SCD). Hemorheological parameters are excellent candidates as abnormal red blood cell (RBC) rheology plays a critical role in SCD pathophysiology. Here we describe a microfluidic device capable of evaluating RBC deformability and adhesiveness concurrently, by measuring their effect on perfusion of an artificial microvascular network (AMVN) that combines microchannels small enough to require RBC deformation, and laminin (LN) coating on channel walls to model intravascular adhesion. Each AMVN device consists of three identical capillary networks, which can be coated with LN (adhesive) or left uncoated (non-adhesive) independently. The perfusion rate for sickle RBCs in the LN-coated networks (0.18 ± 0.02 nL/s) was significantly slower than in non-adhesive networks (0.20 ± 0.02 nL/s), and both were significantly slower than the perfusion rate for normal RBCs in the LN-coated networks (0.22 ± 0.01 nL/s). Importantly, there was no overlap between the ranges of perfusion rates obtained for sickle and normal RBC samples in the LN-coated networks. Interestingly, treatment with poloxamer 188 decreased the perfusion rate for sickle RBCs in LN-coated networks in a dose-dependent manner, contrary to previous studies with conventional assays, but in agreement with the latest clinical trial which showed no clinical benefit. Overall, these findings suggest the potential utility of the adhesive AMVN device for evaluating the effect of novel curative and palliative therapies on the hemorheological status of SCD patients during clinical trials and in post-market clinical practice.
The Synchronized Efforts to Decipher the Molecular Basis for Soybean Maturity Loci E1, E2, and E3 That Regulate Flowering and Maturity
Authors: Xia Zhengjun , Zhai Hong , Wu Hongyan , Xu Kun , Watanabe Satoshi , Harada Kyuya
Published: April 2021

The general concept of photoperiodism, i.e., the photoperiodic induction of flowering, was established by Garner and Allard (1920). The genetic factor controlling flowering time, maturity, or photoperiodic responses was observed in soybean soon after the discovery of the photoperiodism. E1, E2, and E3 were named in 1971 and, thereafter, genetically characterized. At the centennial celebration of the discovery of photoperiodism in soybean, we recount our endeavors to successfully decipher the molecular bases for the major maturity loci E1, E2, and E3 in soybean. Through systematic efforts, we successfully cloned the E3 gene in 2009, the E2 gene in 2011, and the E1 gene in 2012. Recently, successful identification of several circadian-related genes such as PRR3a, LUX, and J has enriched the known major E1-FTs pathway. Further research progresses on the identification of new flowering and maturity-related genes as well as coordinated regulation between flowering genes will enable us to understand profoundly flowering gene network and determinants of latitudinal adaptation in soybean.
Letting Teach: Gen Z as Socio-Political Educators in an Overheated World
Authors: Biswas Tanu
Published: April 2021

In this article, the author begins by grasping the present crisis through the social anthropological description ofoverheating. She then locates “Generation Z (Gen Z)” as a generation born into an overheated era and distinguishes their socio-political struggle for intergenerational climate justice from preceding generations. Following that, the author presents an analysis of the oppressive adultist dimensions of the challenges confronted by Gen Z activists like Greta Thunberg. She does so by engaging with examples from the German context. The objective of the discussion on adultism faced by Gen Z activists consequently establishes that young activists demonstrate relentless courage and hence their contribution deserves a legitimate place in rethinking socio-political “education.” Her reading reveals that young activists are simultaneously resisting adult opposition and contributing to educating older generations about the intergenerational dimensions of the climate crisis. Therefrom, the author proposes that one may re-think the matter at hand from a childist standpoint which implies a re-cognition of pupils' agency within education i.e., intergenerational relating, as something that adults can also learn from. She suggests that an integral dimension of reflexivity in further developing childist educational theory and praxis, entails a conscious commitment tolettingchildren and youth teach adult educators too.
Psychological Predictors of Precautionary Behaviors in Response to COVID-19: A Structural Model
Authors: Frías-Armenta Martha , Corral-Frías Nadia Saraí , Corral-Verdugo Victor , Lucas Marc Yancy
Published: April 2021

The first lines of defense during an epidemic are behavioral interventions, including stay-at-home measures or precautionary health training, aimed at reducing contact and disease transmission. Examining the psychosocial variables that may lead to greater adoption of such precautionary behaviors is critical. The present study examines predictors of precautionary practices against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in 709 Mexican participants from 24 states. The study was conducted via online questionnaire between the end of March and the beginning of April 2020, when the pandemic response was in its initial stages in Mexico. The instrument included demographic items, as well as scales assessing COVID-19-resembling symptoms, empathy, impulsivity, anhedonic depression, general health practices, alcohol consumption, and COVID-19-associated precautionary behaviors. Most participants reported adopting limited social distancing or other precautionary behaviors against COVID-19. The results of a structural equation model demonstrated that the presence of COVID-19 symptoms was related to impulsivity and general health behaviors. However, no direct association between precautionary behaviors and the presence of COVID-19 symptoms was found. In turn, precautionary behaviors were more prevalent among participants who reported higher empathy and general health behaviors and were inhibited indirectly by impulsivity via alcohol consumption. Furthermore, the model suggests that anhedonic depression symptoms have a negative indirect effect on precautionary behaviors via general health behaviors. Finally, impulsivity showed a negative direct effect on general health behavior. These results highlight the role that general physical health and mental health play on precautionary behavior and the critical importance of addressing issues such as depression, general health behaviors, and impulsivity in promoting safe actions and the protection of self and others.
Approach Coping Mitigates Distress of COVID-19 Isolation for Young Men With Low Well-Being in a Sample of 1,749 Youth From Australia and the USA
Authors: Cheng Phillip (Xin) , Park Haeme R. P. , Gatt Justine M.
Published: April 2021

The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic has led to lockdowns across the world with people being separated from their loved ones including partners, family, and friends. Here, using a large sample of 1,749 Australians and Americans, we investigated the impact of COVID-19 isolation on younger populations (13–25 years), and the influence of coping strategies and mental well-being on this impact. Overall, COVID-19 isolation had a more negative impact on adolescence (13–17 years) than young adulthood (18–25 years), but with no difference apparent between men and women, or between Australian and American residents. However, a deeper analysis revealed a gender-specific effect: the type of coping strategies differentially influenced the negative impact of COVID-19 isolation on men with various levels of well-being, an interaction effect not apparent in women. For men with lower levels of mental well-being, COVID-19 isolation appeared to have a less negative impact on them if they used more approach-oriented coping strategies (e.g., actively focusing on the problem). Our results provide cross-sectional evidence for a differential impact on young men at low levels of wellbeing by pandemic isolation. In sum, young men and adolescent boys with lower well-being coped better with COVID-19 isolation when they used more approach coping strategies.
Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Security and Safety Workers Toward the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: AlRasheed Maha M. , Alsugair Abdullah M. , Almarzouqi Hala F. , Alonazi Gadah K. , Aleanizy Fadilah S. , Alqahtani Fulwah Y. , Shazly Gamal A. , Khurshid Fowad
Published: April 2021

Aim: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of security and safety workers toward the COVID-19 pandemic in Saudi Arabia.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted between April and July 2020 using a self-developed structured questionnaire that was randomly distributed online among security and safety employees in government or private sectors.

Results: Among the 712 participants, 53.9% were female and the respondents' mean age was 39.43 years. Television was chosen as the most reliable source of information by 75.0% of the participants. Most of the respondents had a sufficient knowledge about the COVID-19 pandemic, as the majority of them answered the knowledge questions correctly. The significant predictors for their knowledge were their educational level, age, marital status, parenthood status, and employment sector (private or government). Our study revealed an overall 98.6% positive attitude of safety and security workers toward COVID-19. Majority of the respondents were following good and safe COVID-19 prevention practices.

Conclusion: High level of knowledge was reflected in both the attitude and practice of the participants toward the COVID-19 pandemic.
Fostering Resilience in Pregnancy and Early Childhood During the COVID-19 Pandemic: The HUGS/Abrazos Program Design and Implementation
Authors: Liu Meisui , Neri Mini Fernanda , Torres Carlos , Kwete Gracia M. , Boudreau Alexy Arauz , Hunter Mary Lyons , Parra Maria Yolanda , Lopez William , Izen Amy , Price Sarah N. , Perkins Meghan E. , Taveras Elsie M.
Published: April 2021

Pregnancy and early childhood pose unique sensitivity to stressors such as economic instability, poor mental health, and social inequities all of which have been magnified by the COVID-19 pandemic. In absence of protective buffers, prolonged exposure to excessive, early adversity can lead to poor health outcomes with significant impact lasting beyond the childhood years. Helping Us Grow Stronger (HUGS/Abrazos) is a community-based program, designed and launched at the time of the COVID-19 surge in the Spring of 2020, that combines emergency relief, patient navigation, and direct behavioral health support to foster family resilience and mitigate the negative impacts of COVID-related toxic stress on pregnant women and families with children under age 6. Through a targeted referral process, community health workers provide resource navigation for social needs, and a social worker provides behavioral health support. The use of innovative tools such as a centralized resource repository, community health workers with specialized knowledge in this age range, and a direct referral system seeks to assist in streamlining communication and ensuring delivery of quality care. We aim to serve over 300 families within the 1st year. The HUGS/Abrazos program aims to fill an important void by providing the necessary tools and interventions to support pregnant women and young families impacted by adversity exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Health Risks Associated With Excessive Exposure to Solar Ultraviolet Radiation Among Outdoor Workers in South Africa: An Overview
Authors: Wright Caradee Y. , Norval Mary
Published: April 2021

Exposure of outdoor workers to high levels of solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) poses significant, well-known health risks including skin cancer and eye diseases. In South Africa, little is known about how many workers are potentially overexposed to solar UVR and what the associated impacts on their health might be. In this overview, the geography and solar UVR environment in South Africa are considered, as well as the different outdoor occupational groups likely to be affected by excessive solar UVR exposure. Sunburn, pterygium, cataract, keratinocyte cancers, and melanoma are discussed in the context of outdoor workers. Few studies in South Africa have considered these health issues and the most effective ways to reduce solar UVR exposure for those working outside. Several countries have developed policies and guidelines to support sun safety in the workplace which include training and education, in addition to the provision of personal protective equipment and managerial support. Several gaps in occupational sun protection and workplace sun safety for South Africa are identified. Legislation needs to recognize solar UVR exposure as an occupational health hazard, with sun safety guidelines and training provided for employers and employees.
MAP-Elites Enables Powerful Stepping Stones and Diversity for Modular Robotics
Authors: Nordmoen Jørgen , Veenstra Frank , Ellefsen Kai Olav , Glette Kyrre
Published: April 2021

In modular robotics modules can be reconfigured to change the morphology of the robot, making it able to adapt to specific tasks. However, optimizing both the body and control of such robots is a difficult challenge due to the intricate relationship between fine-tuning control and morphological changes that can invalidate such optimizations. These challenges can trap many optimization algorithms in local optima, halting progress towards better solutions. To solve this challenge we compare three different Evolutionary Algorithms on their capacity to optimize high performing and diverse morphologies and controllers in modular robotics. We compare two objective-based search algorithms, with and without a diversity promoting objective, with a Quality Diversity algorithm—MAP-Elites. The results show that MAP-Elites is capable of evolving the highest performing solutions in addition to generating the largest morphological diversity. Further, MAP-Elites is superior at regaining performance when transferring the population to new and more difficult environments. By analyzing genealogical ancestry we show that MAP-Elites produces more diverse and higher performing stepping stones than the two other objective-based search algorithms. The experiments transitioning the populations to new environments show the utility of morphological diversity, while the analysis of stepping stones show a strong correlation between diversity of ancestry and maximum performance on the locomotion task. Together, these results demonstrate the suitability of MAP-elites for the challenging task of morphology-control search for modular robots, and shed light on the algorithm’s capability of generating stepping stones for reaching high-performing solutions.
Fostering Academic Interdisciplinarity: Italy's Pioneering Experiment on Sustainability Education in Schools and Universities
Authors: Fioramonti Lorenzo , Giordano Claudia , Basile Francesco Luca
Published: April 2021

The world needs a systemic transformation from a social, economic and environmental point of view in order to deal with present and future challenges, which are crosscutting in nature. Education and research can become powerful drivers for this radical change, provided they can break free from narrow disciplinary approaches and cultivate the interconnectedness of knowledge. With a view to repurposing teaching and research toward an integrated approach, Italy has introduced a number of reforms, including a mandatory module for all schools and an interdisciplinary course for universities, largely modeled on the interdisciplinary concept of sustainability. Italy was the first country in the world to do so and the news had resonance throughout the globe, indicating a thirst for innovative methods in education and research. This article discusses the approach and the obstacles faced, with the aim of encouraging debate over its structure and contents and potentially replicating its implementation in other parts of the world.
Challenges in Food Security, Nutritional, and Social Public Policies for Venezuela: Rethinking the Future
Authors: Herrera-Cuenca Marianella , Landaeta Jimenez Maritza , Sifontes Yaritza
Published: April 2021

Food security in Venezuela presents signs of individual, family, community and national deterioration. The food and nutrition system has been weakened by the decrease in the production and the installation of parallel, irregular and insufficient distribution networks. Economic turmoil, political instability, hyperinflation, and poverty, the highest in recent history, limit the population's income and the access to quality food. The transition from capitalism to state-centered socialism has not been successful in ensuring enough foods for Venezuelans and the effect on the well-being of the population has been detrimental. This study proposes to design a public policy model based on the analysis of food security indicators, to generate an integrated framework of actions. The proposed model considers Dunn's classic public policy approach (2017) and the criteria of the Public Health Tools/Community Nutrition Program-Nutritional Care Process: Nutrition Care Process (NCP) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 2012. The World Food Program survey on food security in Venezuela 2019, and the HumVenezuela.com 2020 platform were used. The integrated model includes two levels, one for bringing assistance to the most vulnerable and the other for strategic planning of structural, legal and institutional problems, and health and food safety gaps, in an ethical and moral framework that challenges corruption and promotes education and culture of peace. It is necessary for public policies to have parallel levels of actions to assist those most in need and to face long-term structural changes, which should begin as soon as possible, to ensure the correct path toward development.
Successful Radical Pneumonectomy for a Primitive Neuroendodermal Tumor in the Lung: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Yue Bingqing , Chen Peng , Yin Pan , Wang Jiankai , Liu Fanying , Zhao Duo , Chen Jingyu , Jiang Hua
Published: April 2021

Peripheral primitive neuroendodermal tumors (PNETs) and Ewing's sarcoma belong to the Ewing family of tumors and are small round-cell malignancies originating from spinal cord cells. These tumors account for 5% of all small round-cell malignant neoplasms. PNETs that arise from the lung parenchyma without pleural or chest wall involvement are very rare. We report a case of an adult female with a large pulmonary PNET who had given birth just 1 month prior to the diagnosis. She had cough and expectoration for 6 months, and the preoperative examination showed no metastases. Thus, we performed radical pneumonectomy and lymph node dissection. The patient recovered well without surgical complications and was discharged 7 days after the surgery. Postoperative pathology confirmed that the tumor was a small round-cell malignancy, and the tumor cells were positive for CD99, Friend leukemia virus integration 1 (FLI-1), and neuron-specific enolase (NSE), which was consistent with the diagnosis of a PNET. For primary large pulmonary PNETs, radical pneumonectomy may be a safe surgical method, worthy of further application in clinical practice.
Design Optimization of Interfacing Attachments for the Deployable Wing of an Unmanned Re-Entry Vehicle
Authors: Di Caprio Francesco , Scigliano Roberto , Fauci Roberto , Tescione Domenico
Published: April 2021

Re-entry winged body vehicles have several advantages w.r.t capsules, such as maneuverability and controlled landing opportunity. On the other hand, they show an increment in design level complexity, especially from an aerodynamic, aero-thermodynamic, and structural point of view, and in the difficulties of housing in operative existing launchers. In this framework, the idea of designing unmanned vehicles equipped with deployable wings for suborbital flight was born. This work details a preliminary study for identifying the best configuration for the hinge system aimed at the in-orbit deployment of an unmanned re-entry vehicle’s wings. In particular, the adopted optimization methodology is described. The adopted approach uses a genetic algorithm available in commercial software in conjunction with fully parametric models created in FEM environments and, in particular, it can optimize the hinge position considering both the deployed and folded configuration. The results identify the best hinge configuration that minimizes interface loads, thus, realizing a lighter and more efficient deployment system. Indeed, for such a category of vehicle, it is mandatory to reduce the structural mass, as much as possible in order to increase the payload and reduce service costs.
Direct Economic Impact Assessment of Winter Honeybee Colony Losses in Three European Countries
Authors: Popovska Stojanov Despina , Dimitrov Lazo , Danihlík Jiří , Uzunov Aleksandar , Golubovski Miroljub , Andonov Sreten , Brodschneider Robert
Published: April 2021

Honeybees are of great importance because of their role in pollination as well as for hive products. The population of managed colonies fluctuates over time, and recent monitoring reports show different levels of colony losses in many regions and countries. The cause of this kind of loss is a combination of various factors, such as the parasitic mite Varroa destructor, viruses, pesticides, management practices, climate change, and other stress factors. Having in mind that the economic aspect of honeybee colony losses has not been estimated, a pioneer effort was made for developing a methodology that estimates the economic impact of honeybee colony losses. Winter loss data was based on 2993 answers of the COLOSS standard questionnaire survey of honeybee winter colony losses for 2016/2017. In addition, market and financial data were used for each country. In a comparative analysis, an assessment on the economic impact of colony losses in Austria, Czechia, and Macedonia was made. The estimation considered the value of the colonies and the potential production losses of the lost colonies and of surviving but weak colonies. The direct economic impact of winter honeybee colony losses in 2016/2017 in Austria was estimated to be about 32 Mio €; in Czechia, 21 Mio €; and in Macedonia, 3 Mio €. Economic impact reflects the different value levels in the three countries, national colony populations, and the magnitude of colony losses. This study also suggests that economic losses are much higher than the subsidies, which underlines the economic importance of honeybees for the agricultural sector.
The Effects of Using Sulfur and Organic Bedding on the Content of Macro- and Micronutrients and Biologically Active Substances in Winter Garlic Bulbs
Authors: Sałata Andrzej , Buczkowska Halina , Papliński Rafał , Rutkowska Anna
Published: April 2021

Sulfur (S) directly influences the proper development, yield, and biological value of Allium sativum. The sulfuric forms of S are easily leached from the soil due to poor sorption. In this context, we looked at to what extent application of S and biomass of catch crops (CCs) left until spring would cause an increase in the yield; we also looked at the macro- and micronutrient content of garlic plants. The experimental factors included applications of 0 and 20 kg ha−1 S to CCs consisting of Trifolium alexandrinum, Raphamus sativus var. oleiformis, Fagopyrum esculentum, Sinapis alba, and control. The bulbs contained more dry matter and macro- and micronutrients (N, P, K, S, Zn, and Fe) than those without S. Garlic plants cultivated with S accumulated more glutathione and total phenolic acids (TPA), and the extracts showed greater antioxidant activity (AA) than those cultivated without S. In 2019 and 2020, the cultivation of winter garlic with S, in combination with clover contributed to an increase in the content of dry matter, S, TPA, AA in bulbs. In the cultivation with fodder radish garlic plants accumulated more nitrogen (N), S, TPA, AA and glutathione in bulbs. In those cultivated with buckwheat, garlic contained more TPA, AA, glutathione, and with mustard more TPA and AA. However, further research is needed to select the species of CC and to determine the S dose to be applied in the effective biofortification of garlic in a sustainable agriculture system.