bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How to activate students’ natural desire to test themselves
Authors: Vaughn Kalif E. , Kornell Nate
Published: September 2019

Testing oneself (i.e., doing retrieval practice) is an effective way to study. We attempted to make learners choose to test themselves more often. In Experiment 1, participants were asked how they wanted to study and were given four options: retrieval with no hint (e.g., idea: ______), a two-letter hint (e.g., idea: s____r), a four-letter hint (e.g., idea: se__er), or a presentation trial (e.g., idea: seeker). They tested themselves on the majority of trials. In Experiment 2, when the hint options were removed, they chose restudy rather than pure test on the majority of trials. These findings show that people prefer self-testing over restudy as long as they can get the answer right on the test. However, we would not recommend hints if they impaired learning compared to pure testing. Experiment 3 showed that this was not the case; the three retrieval conditions from Experiment 1 led to equivalent amounts of learning, and all three outperformed the pure presentation condition. We used different materials in Experiment 4 and found that the hints made retrieval slightly less beneficial when the hints made it possible to guess the answers without thinking back to the study phase (e.g., whip: pu__sh). In summary, hints catalyzed people’s intuitive desire to self-test, without any downside for learning, thus making their self-regulated study more enjoyable and effective.
The effect of statement type and repetition on deception detection
Authors: Cash Daniella K. , Dianiska Rachel E. , Lane Sean M.
Published: September 2019

Background

Deception is a prevalent component of human interaction. However, meta-analyses suggest that discriminating between truthful and deceptive statements is a very arduous task and accuracy on these judgments is at chance levels. To complicate matters further, individuals tell different types of lies. The current studies examined how an individual’s ability to accurately discriminate between truthful and deceptive statements is affected by the way truths and lies are conveyed. Participants judged the veracity of statements given by speakers who told truths or lies about a performed action by describing that action or denying that it had occurred. Additionally, these statements also differed with regard to how often the lie had been repeated (i.e., practiced), either once or thrice.

Results

The results were largely in line with the prevailing notion that it is difficult to successfully differentiate between truthful and deceptive statements, but also showed that performance was moderated by statement type and repetition. The results revealed that participants were more accurate in discriminating unrepeated descriptions than repeated descriptions, but this difference was not seen for denial statements. Additionally, participants were more likely to believe practiced (repeated) statements, both truthful and deceptive.

Conclusion

The results show that repeated statements as well as shorter denials can increase the difficulty of differentiating truthful from deceptive statements. Additionally, these findings suggest that truthful statements also benefit from repetition with regard to enhancing their believability.
Preconception care in mental health services: planning for a better future
Authors: Catalao Raquel , Mann Sue , Wilson Claire , Howard Louise M.
Published: September 2019

It is increasingly recognised that the preconception period is a window of opportunity to intervene to improve outcomes for women and the next generation. The importance of preconception mental health and comorbidity problems has not traditionally been taken into account by policy makers or mental health service providers. We argue that by addressing preconception physical and mental health in men and women, medical health professionals could improve health outcomes across the whole life course.
Phase II Trial of Response-Based Radiation Therapy for Patients With Localized CNS Nongerminomatous Germ Cell Tumors: A Children's Oncology Group Study
Authors: Fangusaro Jason , Wu Shengjie , MacDonald Shannon , Murphy Erin , Shaw Dennis , Bartels Ute , Khatua Soumen , Souweidane Mark , Lu Hsiao-Ming , Morris David , Panigrahy Ashok , Onar-Thomas Arzu , Fouladi Maryam , Gajjar Amar , Dhall Girish
Published: September 2019

PURPOSE

Stratum 1 of ACNS1123 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01602666 ), a Children’s Oncology Group phase II trial, evaluated efficacy of reduced-dose and volume of radiotherapy (RT) in children and adolescents with localized nongerminomatous germ cell tumors (NGGCTs). The primary objective was to evaluate the impact of reduced RT on progression-free survival (PFS) with a goal of preserving neurocognitive function.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients received six cycles of chemotherapy with carboplatin and etoposide alternating with ifosfamide and etoposide, as used in the Children’s Oncology Group predecessor study (ACNS0122; ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00047320 ). Patients who achieved a complete response (CR) or partial response (PR) with or without second-look surgery were eligible for reduced RT, defined as 30.6 Gy whole ventricular field and 54 Gy tumor-bed boost, compared with 36 Gy craniospinal irradiation plus 54 Gy tumor-bed boost used in ACNS0122.

RESULTS

A total of 107 eligible patients were enrolled. Median age was 10.98 years (range, 3.68 to 21.63) and 75% were male. Sixty-six of 107 (61.7%) achieved a CR or PR and proceeded to reduced RT. The 3-year PFS and overall survival and standard error values were 87.8% ± 4.04% and 92.4% ± 3.3% compared with 92% and 94.1%, respectively, in ACNS0122. There were 10 recurrences, prompting early study closure; however, after a retrospective central review, only disease in eight of 66 (12.1%) patients eligible for reduced RT subsequently progressed; six patients had distant spinal relapse alone and two had disease with combined local plus distant relapse. Serum and CSF α-fetoprotein and β-human chorionic gonadotropin levels were not associated with PFS.

CONCLUSION

Patients with localized NGGCT who achieved a CR or PR to chemotherapy and received reduced RT had encouraging PFS similar to patients in ACNS0122 who received full-dose craniospinal irradiation. However, the patterns of failure were distinct, with all patients having treatment failure in the spine.
Pioglitazone Exposure Reduced the Risk of All-Cause Mortality in Insulin-Treated Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Yen Fu-Shun , Wang Hsiang-Chi , Pan Chun-Wei , Wei James Cheng-Chung , Hsu Chih-Cheng , Hwu Chii-Min
Published: September 2019

Context

The long-term safety and benefit of pioglitazone use in combination with insulin are still uncertain.

Objective

This study compared the risks of all-cause mortality and major cardiovascular (CV) events between pioglitazone users and nonusers receiving insulin therapy.

Design, Setting and Patients

We conducted a 13-year retrospective cohort study by using data from the population-based National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan. A total of 20 376 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) receiving insulin therapy were enrolled during 2000 to 2012. Overall, the incidence rates of all-cause mortality and CV events were compared between 2579 pioglitazone users and 2579 matched nonusers.

Results

After adjustment for age, sex, comorbidities, Diabetes Complications Severity Index scores, and drugs used, mortality rates were 30.26 and 15.02 per 1000 person-years for pioglitazone nonusers and users, respectively. The adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) of mortality was 0.47 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.38–0.58, P < 0.001) for pioglitazone users compared with nonusers. The aHRs of CV and non-CV deaths were 0.78 (95% CI: 0.51–1.19) and 0.50 (95% CI: 0.38–0.66), respectively. The aHRs of hospitalized coronary artery disease, hospitalized stroke, and incident heart failure were not significantly different between pioglitazone users and nonusers.

Conclusions

This nationwide cohort study demonstrated that pioglitazone use reduced the risks of all-cause mortality and non-CV death for patients with T2DM undergoing insulin therapy.
Body Composition and Markers of Cardiometabolic Health in Transgender Youth Compared With Cisgender Youth
Authors: Nokoff Natalie J , Scarbro Sharon L , Moreau Kerrie L , Zeitler Philip , Nadeau Kristen J , Juarez-Colunga Elizabeth , Kelsey Megan M
Published: September 2019

Context

As many as 1.8% of adolescents identify as transgender and many more seek care, yet the impact of gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) on cardiometabolic health is unknown.

Objective

To determine insulin sensitivity and body composition among transgender females (TF) and males (TM) on estradiol or testosterone, compared with cisgender females (CF) and males (CM).

Design

Pilot, cross-sectional study conducted from 2016–2018.

Setting

Academic regional transgender referral center.

Participants

Transgender adolescents on either testosterone or estradiol for at least 3 months were recruited. Nineteen TM were matched to 19 CM and 42 CF on pubertal stage and body mass index (BMI). Eleven TF were matched to 23 CF and 13 TF to 24 CM on age and BMI.

Main Outcome Measures

1/[fasting insulin] and body composition (dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry).

Results

Total body fat was lower in TM than CF mean ± SD: (29% ± 7% vs 33% ± 7%; P = 0.002) and higher than in CM (28% ± 7% vs 24% ± 9%; P = 0.047). TM had higher lean mass than CF (68% ± 7% vs 64% ± 7%, P = 0.002) and lower than CM (69% ± 7% vs 73% ± 8%; P = 0.029). Insulin sensitivity was not different between the groups.

TF had lower body fat than CF (31% ± 7% vs 35% ± 8%; P = 0.033) and higher than CM (28% ± 6% vs 20% ± 10%; P = 0.001). TF had higher lean mass than CF (66% ± 6% vs 62% ± 7%; P = 0.032) and lower than CM (69% ± 5% vs 77% ± 9%; P = 0.001). TF were more insulin resistant than CM (0.078 ± 0.025 vs 0.142 ± 0.064 mL/μU; P = 0.011).

Conclusions

Transgender adolescents on GAHT have significant differences in body composition compared with cisgender controls, with a body composition intermediate between BMI-matched CMs and CFs. These changes in body composition may have consequences for the cardiometabolic health of transgender adolescents.

ClinicalTrials.gov

NCT02550431
Fibroblast Activation Protein is a GH Target: A Prospective Study of Patients with Acromegaly Before and After Treatment
Authors: Arlien-Søborg Mai C , Grøndahl Camilla , Bæk Amanda , Dal Jakob , Madsen Michael , Høgild Morten Lyng , Pedersen Steen B , Bjerre Mette , Jørgensen Jens O L
Published: September 2019

Background

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is a circulating hormone with pleiotropic metabolic effects, which is inactivated by fibroblast activation protein (FAP). Data regarding interaction between FGF21, FAP, and growth hormone (GH) are limited, but it is noteworthy that collagens are also FAP substrates, since GH potently stimulates collagen turnover.

Aim

To measure circulating FGF21 components, including FAP, in patients with acromegaly before and after disease control.

Methods

Eighteen patients with active acromegaly were studied at the time of diagnosis and ≥ 6 months after disease control by either surgery or medical treatment. Serum levels of total and active FGF21, β-klotho, FAP, and collagen turnover markers were measured by immunoassays. Expression of putative FGF21-dependent genes were measured in adipose tissue by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, body composition assessed by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry scan, and insulin sensitivity estimated with homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR).

Results

Total FGF21, active FGF21 and β-klotho remained unchanged. Insulin sensitivity and body fat mass increased after disease control but neither correlated with active FGF21. Expression of FGF21-dependent genes did not change after treatment. FAP levels (µg/L) were markedly reduced after treatment [105.6 ± 29.4 vs 62.2 ± 32.4, P < 0.000]. Collagen turnover markers also declined significantly after treatment and ΔFAP correlated positively with ΔProcollagen Type I (P < 0.000) and Type III (P < 0.000).

Conclusion

1) Circulating FGF21 and β-klotho do not change in response to acromegaly treatment, 2) FAP concentrations in serum decrease after disease control and correlate positively with collagen turnover markers, and 3) FAP is a hitherto unrecognized GH target linked to collagen turnover.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT00647179
IGF2 Mutations
Authors: Masunaga Yohei , Inoue Takanobu , Yamoto Kaori , Fujisawa Yasuko , Sato Yasuhiro , Kawashima-Sonoyama Yuki , Morisada Naoya , Iijima Kazumoto , Ohata Yasuhisa , Namba Noriyuki , Suzumura Hiroshi , Kuribayashi Ryota , Yamaguchi Yu , Yoshihashi Hiroshi , Fukami Maki , Saitsu Hirotomo , Kagami Masayo , Ogata Tsutomu
Published: September 2019

Objective

IGF2 is a paternally expressed growth-promoting gene. Here, we report five cases with IGF2 mutations and review IGF2 mutation-positive patients described in the literature. We also compare clinical features between patients with IGF2 mutations and those with H19/IGF2:IG-DMR epimutations.

Results

We recruited five cases with IGF2 mutations: case 1 with a splice site mutation (c.–6–1G>C) leading to skipping of exon 2 and cases 2–5 with different missense mutations (p.(Cys70Tyr), p.(Cys71Arg), p.(Cys33Ser), and p.(Cys45Ser)) affecting cysteine residues involved in the S-S bindings. All the mutations resided on the paternally inherited allele, and the mutation of case 5 was present in a mosaic condition. Clinical assessment revealed Silver–Russell syndrome (SRS) phenotype with Netchine–Harbison scores of ≥5/6 in all the apparently nonmosaic 14 patients with IGF2 mutations (cases 1–4 described in this study and 10 patients reported in the literature). Furthermore, compared with H19/IGF2:IG-DMR epimutations, IGF2 mutations were associated with low frequency of hemihypoplasia, high frequency of feeding difficulty and/or reduced body mass index, and mild degree of relative macrocephaly, together with occasional development of severe limb malformations, high frequency of cardiovascular anomalies and developmental delay, and low serum IGF-II values.

Conclusions

This study indicates that IGF2 mutations constitute a rare but important cause of SRS. Furthermore, while both IGF2 mutations and H19/IGF2:IG-DMR epimutations lead to SRS, a certain degree of phenotypic difference is observed between the two groups, probably due to the different IGF2 expression pattern in target tissues.
Nonconventional Doses of Somatostatin Analogs in Patients With Progressing Well-Differentiated Neuroendocrine Tumor
Authors: Lamberti Giuseppe , Faggiano Antongiulio , Brighi Nicole , Tafuto Salvatore , Ibrahim Toni , Brizzi Maria Pia , Pusceddu Sara , Albertelli Manuela , Massironi Sara , Panzuto Francesco , Badalamenti Giuseppe , Riccardi Ferdinando , Butturini Giovanni , Gelsomino Fabio , De Divitiis Chiara , Modica Roberta , Bongiovanni Alberto , La Salvia Anna , Torchio Martina , Colao Annamaria , Ferone Diego , Campana Davide
Published: September 2019

Purpose

To evaluate the antiproliferative activity and safety of nonconventional high doses of somatostatin analogs (HD-SSA) in patients with well-differentiated gastroenteropancreatic (GEP) neuroendocrine tumors (NET) with radiological disease progression according to Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) criteria on a previous treatment.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of prospectively maintained databases from 13 Italian NET-dedicated centers was performed. Main inclusion criteria were: well-differentiated G1 or G2 GEP-NET, progressive disease on a previous treatment, and subsequent treatment with HD-SSA (either by increased administered dose [dose intensity] or shortened interval between administrations [dose density]). Main endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS) and safety.

Results

Of 198 patients, 140 matched inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. Overall, median PFS was 31 months. Use of HD-SSA as second-line treatment was associated with reduced risk for progression or death compared with third- or further-line treatment (HR: 2.12; P = 0.004). There was no difference in PFS between HD-SSA by increased dose density (N = 133; 95%) or intensity (N = 7; 5%). Partial response according to RECIST criteria was observed in 12 patients (8.6%), and stable disease was achieved in 106 (75.7%) patients. Adverse events occurred in 21 patients (15.0%), 2 of whom had grade 3 biliary stone disease. No patients discontinued HD-SSA treatment due to adverse events.

Conclusions

HD-SSA is an active and safe treatment option in patients with progressive well-differentiated GEP-NET. The high rate of objective responses observed deserves prospective validation in ad hoc clinical trials.
Comparison Between Total Thyroidectomy and Medical Therapy for Amiodarone-Induced Thyrotoxicosis
Authors: Cappellani Daniele , Papini Piermarco , Pingitore Alessandro , Tomisti Luca , Mantuano Michele , Di Certo Agostino M , Manetti Luca , Marconcini Giulia , Scattina Ilaria , Urbani Claudio , Morganti Riccardo , Marcocci Claudio , Materazzi Gabriele , Iervasi Giorgio , Martino Enio , Bartalena Luigi , Bogazzi Fausto
Published: September 2019

Context

It is not known whether total thyroidectomy is more favorable than medical therapy for patients with amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT).

Objective

To compare total thyroidectomy with medical therapy on survival and cardiac function in AIT patients.

Methods

Observational longitudinal cohort study involving 207 AIT patients that had received total thyroidectomy (surgery group, n = 51) or medical therapy (medical therapy group, n = 156) over a 20-year period. AIT types and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) classes were determined at diagnosis of AIT. Cardiac and thyroid function were reevaluated during the study period. Survival was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method.

Results

Overall mortality and cardiac-specific mortality at 10 and 5 years, respectively, were lower in the surgery group than in the medical therapy group (P = 0.04 and P = 0.01, respectively). The lower mortality rate of the surgery group was due to patients with moderate to severely compromised LVEF (P = 0.005 vs medical therapy group). In contrast, mortality of patients with normal or mildly reduced LVEF did not differ between the 2 groups (P = 0.281 and P = 0.135, respectively). Death of patients with moderate to severe LV systolic dysfunction in the medical therapy group occurred after 82 days (interquartile range, 56–99), a period longer than that necessary to restore euthyroidism in the surgery group (26 days; interquartile range, 15–95; P = 0.038). Risk factors for mortality were age (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.036) and LVEF (HR = 0.964), whereas total thyroidectomy was shown to be a protective factor (HR = 0.210). LVEF increased in both groups after restoration of euthyroidism, above all in the most compromised patients in the surgery group.

Conclusions

Total thyroidectomy could be considered the therapeutic choice for AIT patients with severe systolic dysfunction, whereas it is not superior to medical therapy in those with normal or mildly reduced LVEF.
The Role of Sex and Sex Hormones in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Vegeto Elisabetta , Villa Alessandro , Della Torre Sara , Crippa Valeria , Rusmini Paola , Cristofani Riccardo , Galbiati Mariarita , Maggi Adriana , Poletti Angelo
Published: September 2019

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are a wide class of disorders of the central nervous system (CNS) with unknown etiology. Several factors were hypothesized to be involved in the pathogenesis of these diseases, including genetic and environmental factors. Many of these diseases show a sex prevalence and sex steroids were shown to have a role in the progression of specific forms of neurodegeneration. Estrogens were reported to be neuroprotective through their action on cognate nuclear and membrane receptors, while adverse effects of male hormones have been described on neuronal cells, although some data also suggest neuroprotective activities. The response of the CNS to sex steroids is a complex and integrated process that depends on (i) the type and amount of the cognate steroid receptor and (ii) the target cell type—either neurons, glia, or microglia. Moreover, the levels of sex steroids in the CNS fluctuate due to gonadal activities and to local metabolism and synthesis. Importantly, biochemical processes involved in the pathogenesis of NDs are increasingly being recognized as different between the two sexes and as influenced by sex steroids. The aim of this review is to present current state-of-the-art understanding on the potential role of sex steroids and their receptors on the onset and progression of major neurodegenerative disorders, namely, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s diseases, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and the peculiar motoneuron disease spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy, in which hormonal therapy is potentially useful as disease modifier.
Ossified and Materialized Selves in Three Manuscripts of Colonial Guatemala: Connections with the Sacred Instrumentality of Bone
Authors: Hinojosa Servando Z.
Published: September 2019

Guatemalan colonial-period documents have proven valuable for revealing Maya thinking about bone, especially how Mayas imbued bones with personal identity. At key moments in the narratives of three Guatemalan manuscripts, the Rabinal Achi, Xpantzay Cartulary, and Pop Wuj, Mayas materialized the self of important individuals through their bones, treating the bones at times like captives. By doing this, colonial-era Mayas were revealing their ideational linkages with Mayas from the Classic and Postclassic periods who practiced ancestor veneration using bones. In this network of practices, Classic-, Postclassic-, and colonial-era Mayas linked human bones to enduring personal forces and used bones to support claims of ancestry to specific people. This study explores this feature of Maya life, and then analyzes how Mayas of the last hundred years now value bone more for other, non-ancestral ritual utilities. They have shifted from treating certain bones as a materialization of self to viewing bones in terms of the practical potentialities the bones encase, employing a mode of engagement exemplified by Tz’utujiil Maya bonesetters who treat broken bones with sacralized bones and bone surrogates. This work examines how bone use has oscillated between these two modes, contrasting how Mayas of the Classic, Postclassic, and colonial periods treated certain bones as a materialization of self against how Mayas of more recent decades have come to emphasize the sacred instrumentality of bone and put it to active use.
Two distinct actin filament populations have effects on mitochondria, with differences in stimuli and assembly factors
Authors: Fung Tak Shun , Ji Wei-Ke , Higgs Henry N. , Chakrabarti Rajarshi
Published: September 2019

Recent studies show that mitochondria and actin filaments work together in two contexts: (1) increased cytoplasmic calcium induces cytoplasmic actin polymerization that stimulates mitochondrial fission and (2) mitochondrial depolarization causes actin assembly around mitochondria, with roles in mitophagy. It is unclear whether these two processes utilize similar actin assembly mechanisms. Here, we show that these are distinct actin assembly mechanisms in the acute phase after treatment (<10 min). Calcium-induced actin assembly is INF2 dependent and Arp2/3 complex independent, whereas depolarization-induced actin assembly is Arp2/3 complex dependent and INF2 independent. The two types of actin polymerization are morphologically distinct, with calcium-induced filaments throughout the cytosol and depolarization-induced filaments as ‘clouds’ around depolarized mitochondria. We have previously shown that calcium-induced actin stimulates increases in both mitochondrial calcium and recruitment of the dynamin GTPase Drp1 (also known as DNM1L). In contrast, depolarization-induced actin is temporally associated with extensive mitochondrial dynamics that do not result in mitochondrial fission, but in circularization of the inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM). These dynamics are dependent on the protease OMA1 and independent of Drp1. Actin cloud inhibition causes increased IMM circularization, suggesting that actin clouds limit these dynamics.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
Drosophila emerins control LINC complex localization and transcription to regulate myonuclear position
Authors: Mandigo Torrey R. , Turcich Blake D. , Anderson Alyssa J. , Hussey Michael R. , Folker Eric S.
Published: September 2019

Mispositioned nuclei are a hallmark of skeletal muscle disease. Many of the genes that are linked to Emery–Dreifuss muscular dystrophy (EDMD) encode proteins that are critical for nuclear movement in various cells, suggesting that disruptions in nuclear movement and position may contribute to disease progression. However, how these genes are coordinated to move nuclei is not known. Here, we focussed on two different emerin proteins in Drosophila, Bocksbeutel and Otefin, and their effects on nuclear movement. Although nuclear position was dependent on both, elimination of either Bocksbeutel or Otefin produced distinct phenotypes that were based in differential effects on the KASH-domain protein Klarsicht. Specifically, loss of Bocksbeutel reduced Klarsicht localization to the nucleus and resulted in a disruption in nuclear separation. Loss of Otefin increased the transcription of Klarsicht and led to premature separation of nuclei and their positioning closer to the edge of the muscle. Consistent with opposing functions, nuclear position is normal in otefin; bocksbeutel double mutants. These data indicate emerin-dependent regulation of Klarsicht levels in the nuclear envelope is a critical determinant of nuclear position.
Embryonic developmental oxygen preconditions cardiovascular function response to acute hypoxic exposure and maximal β-adrenergic stimulation of anesthetized juvenile American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis)
Authors: Smith Brandt , Crossley Janna L. , Elsey Ruth M. , Hicks James W. , Crossley Dane A.
Published: September 2019

The effects of the embryonic environment on juvenile phenotypes are widely recognized. We investigated the effect of embryonic hypoxia on the cardiovascular phenotype of 4-year-old American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis). We hypothesized that embryonic 10% oxygen preconditions cardiac function, decreasing the reduction in cardiac contractility associated with acute 5% oxygen exposure in juvenile alligators. Our findings indicate that dobutamine injections caused a 90% increase in systolic pressure in juveniles that were incubated in 21% and 10% O2 with the 10% O2 group responding with a greater rate of ventricular relaxation and greater left ventricle output compared the 21% O2 group. Further our findings indicate that juvenile alligators that experienced embryonic hypoxia have a faster rate of ventricular relaxation, greater left ventricle stroke volume, and greater cardiac power following beta-adrenergic stimulation, compared to juvenile alligators that did not experience embryonic hypoxia. When juveniles were exposed to 5% oxygen for 20 minutes, normoxic-incubated juveniles had a 50% decline in left ventricle maximal rate of pressure development and maximal pressure; however, these parameters were unaffected and decreased less in the hypoxic-incubated juveniles. These data indicate that embryonic hypoxia in crocodilians alters the cardiovascular phenotype, changing the juvenile response to acute hypoxia and beta-adrenergic stimulation.
Size-selective filtration of the atrial wall estimated from the accumulation of tracers in the kidney of the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis
Authors: Wakashin Hidefumi , Seo Eriko , Seo Yoshiteru
Published: September 2019

In order to determine the molecular weight cut-off (MWCO) for the atrial wall filtration into kidneys of the Mytilus galloprovincialis, we employed 5 magnetic resonance (MR) tracers: manganese chloride (Mn2+), gadolinium chloride (Gd3+), manganese- ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (MnEDTA), gadolinium-diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (GdDTPA), and oligomer-based contrast agent (CH3-DTPA-Gd). After injection of the MR tracers (1 or 2 mM x 0.1 mL) into the visceral mass, T1-weighted MR imaging (T1w-MRI) and the longitudinal relaxation rates (1/T1=R1) were measured at 20°C. The MR tracers were distributed uniformly in the visceral mass within 1 h after injection. The T1w-MRI intensity and R1 of the kidney (R1K) were increased by Mn2+ and MnEDTA, with urine concentrations estimated at 210 and 65 µM, respectively. The rest of tracers showed only minimal or no increase. When the mussels were additionally incubated in seawater with 10 µM MnCl2, R1K was increased in the GdDTPA group, but not in the GdCl3 group. Therefore, Gd3+ might have inhibited renal accumulation of Mn2+ and Gd3+. Incubation in seawater with 10 µM MnEDTA showed no increase in the R1K, but additional incubation with 10 µM MnCl2 caused an increase in R1K. It is suggested that injected MnEDTA was filtrated as MnEDTA per se, and not likely separated into free Mn2+. Thus, we concluded that the MWCO of the atrial wall of the Mytilus galloprovincialis is around 0.5 kDa, which is almost 1/100 of that for vertebrate animals, and suggests a reduction in efforts to reabsorb metabolites and osmolytes from the urine.
Stress coping and evolution of aerobic exercise performance: corticosterone levels in voles from a selection experiment
Authors: Lipowska Małgorzata M. , Sadowska Edyta T. , Bauchinger Ulf , Koteja Paweł
Published: September 2019

The locomotor performance achieved in a challenging situation depends not only on physiological limitations, such as the aerobic exercise capacity, but also on behavioral characteristics, such as adequate stress coping. The stress response is mediated largely by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, through modulated release of glucocorticoids. We used a unique experimental evolution model system to test a hypothesis that evolution of an increased aerobic exercise performance can be facilitated by modification of the glucocorticoid-related stress coping mechanisms. Bank voles (Myodes glareolus) from “aerobic” (A) lines, selected for 22 generations for high maximum swim-induced rate of oxygen consumption (VO2swim), achieved a 64% higher VO2swim than those from unselected, control (C) lines. The temporal pattern of exercise during the swimming trial also evolved, and the A-line voles achieved VO2swim later in the course of the trial, which indicates a modification in the stress response characteristics. Both VO2swim and the average metabolic rate measured during the trial tended to increase with baseline corticosterone level, and decreased with the post-exercise level. Thus, increased baseline corticosterone level promotes high metabolic performance, but a high corticosterone response to swimming acts as an inhibitor rather than stimulator of intense activity. However, neither of the corticosterone traits differed between the A-selected and control lines. Thus, the experiment did not provide evidence that evolution of increased aerobic performance is facilitated by modification of the glucocorticoid levels. The results, however, do not exclude a possibility that other aspects of the HPA axis function evolved in response to the selection.
The urban question in the context of the “double world”
Authors: Kyvelou Stella
Published: September 2019

Once the principle of the inseparability of the material world and cyber territory has been admitted, the question put to the urban planner is being transformed. The transition from the representation of two separate worlds - the physical on the one hand and the digital on the other - to a representation of a “double world” in the sense of the indivisible inter-connection of the physical and the digital, leads to a change of paradigm in abstraction and representation. By accepting the principle of considering the material world and the cyber territory (and not cyberspace) as an indivisible whole, we come up to realize that the urban question changes. If, in the past, our thoughts and studies were aimed at seeking a common world that we should discover and maintain, the modern world is not presumed to belong exclusively in the material reality. The planner’s work, therefore, should certainly take into account this interconnection, the discontinuous, fragmentary involvement, of matter and information. However, this phenomenon is not new since the symbolic dimension of cities, architecture and space in general has always closely interwoven representation and the real world. The difference is that there was then a connection with a particular territory or a national identity. Today, this ancient territorial reference is weakening, although there are signs of reversion to it. Based on these observations, the paper will discuss the evolution of the urban question under the assumption of the indivisible “double world” and the augmented territories.
Testing the role of SOX15 in human primordial germ cell fate
Authors: Pierson Smela Merrick , Sybirna Anastasiya , Wong Frederick C.K. , Surani M. Azim
Published: September 2019

Background: Potentially novel regulators of early human germline development have been identified recently, including SOX15 and SOX17, both of which show specific expression in human primordial germ cells. SOX17 is now known to be a critical specifier of human germ cell identity. There have been suggestions, as yet without evidence, that SOX15 might also play a prominent role. The early human germline is inaccessible for direct study, but an in vitro model of human primordial germ cell-like cell (hPGCLC) specification from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) has been developed. This enables mechanistic study of human germ cell specification using genetic tools to manipulate the levels of SOX15 and SOX17 proteins to explore their roles in hPGCLC specification.

Methods: SOX15 and SOX17 proteins were depleted during hPGCLC specification from hESCs using the auxin-inducible degron system, combined with a fluorescent reporter for tracking protein levels. Additionally, SOX15 protein was overexpressed using the ProteoTuner system. Protein-level expression changes were confirmed by immunofluorescence. The impact on hPGCLC specification efficiency was determined by flow cytometry at various time points. qPCR experiments were performed to determine some transcriptional effects of SOX15 perturbations.

Results: We observed specific SOX15 expression in hPGCLCs by using immunofluorescence and flow cytometry analysis. Depletion of SOX15 had no significant effect on hPGCLC specification efficiency on day 4 after induction, but there was a significant and progressive decrease in hPGCLCs on days 6 and 8. By contrast, depletion of SOX17 completely abrogated hPGCLC specification. Furthermore, SOX15 overexpression resulted in a significant increase in hPGCLC fraction on day 8. qPCR analysis revealed a possible role for the germ cell and pluripotency regulator PRDM14 in compensating for changes to SOX15 protein levels.

Conclusions: SOX17 is essential for hPGCLC specification, yet SOX15 is dispensable. However, SOX15 may have a role in maintaining germ cell identity.
Blockchain based e-Cheque Clearing Framework
Authors: Singh Nikita , Kumar Tarun , Vardhan Manu
Published: September 2019

This research work proposes a novel and comprehensive electronic cheque transactions framework. The proposed e-cheque system is free from the various security attacks such as alteration of the e-cheque, double spending of e-cheque, counterfeits e-cheques. The e-cheque generated in the proposed system can be deposited electronically or physically via teller machines. This facility provides greater flexibility to the customers of the banking system. The proposed system also provides space for professional miners to participate in the e-cheque transaction system by performing mining's and earn incentives. As the customer's perspective of security, the proposed system uses digital signature and cryptographic hash in each transaction hence it is a completely secure system. The existing CTS based cheque clearance request requires at least one day to clear a cheque which could extend to two or three days but the proposed system requires only 1.65 seconds for clearing any e-cheque.
Bem-vindo, a casa é sua! o turismo comunitário da Fundação Casa Grande
Authors: Taumaturgo dos Santos Italo Anderson , Brandão Halana Adelino , Valdevino Antonio Messias , Silva Brena Carolina De Oliveira
Published: September 2019

O caso trata sobre a experiência de turismo comunitário criada em torno da Fundação Casa Grande, uma organização sem fins lucrativos localizada na cidade de Nova Olinda, Ceará, que tem como objetivo promover a formação educacional de crianças e jovens. O modelo de gestão e educação implementado pela Casa Grande despertou a atenção de pesquisadores e curiosos que passaram a frequentar a cidade, criando assim um movimento de turismo comunitário local. O caso é baseado numa experiência real e os dados para sua elaboração foram coletados com o uso entrevistas a partir de roteiros semiestruturados, observação participante e consulta ao acervo fotográfico da Fundação. A aplicação do caso é indicada a disciplinas relacionadas à empreendedorismo, marketing e gestão de serviço em cursos de graduação e especialização da área de gestão.
Editorial
Authors: Moraes Joysi
Published: September 2019

Editorial
Psychological Preconditions for Personality-Oriented Training of the Cadets of Institute of Emergency of Russia
Authors: Штерензон Вера , Shterenzon Vera , Худякова С. , Hudyakova S. , Шпаньков А. , Shpan'kov A.
Published: September 2019

The article is devoted to the study of professional orientation (individual inclination to various professions) in future fire and technosphere safety specialists. Personality’s professional orientation is considered as one of the most important personal characteristic, which can be basis for effective personality-oriented training of the cadets of institute of Emergency of Russia, plays a special role in self-actualization of their personality, influences the results of personal and professional growth. Results of a research of individual inclination to various professions of cadets of the 1st course at the beginning of their training at the Ural State Fire Service Institute of EMERCOM of Russia are presented in the article. In this research there were established significant differences in the structure of the individual professional orientation among cadets-boys and cadets-girls, displayed the inexpediency of their joint training in the identical educational programs, marked the role of professional orientation monitoring in organization of personality-oriented training, extracurricular self-dependent work, continuous multi-stage career guidance.
Mobile Hailing Technology and Taxi Driving Behaviors
Authors: Wang Yanwen , Wu Chunhua , Zhu Ting
Published: September 2019

This paper investigates the impact of mobile hailing technology with destination information on taxi driving behaviors and productivity change.
Shipping to Heterogeneous Customers with Competing Carriers
Authors: Lu Tao , Chen Ying-Ju , Fransoo Jan C. , Lee Chung-Yee
Published: September 2019

Problem definition: We study a shipper transporting and selling a short life-cycle product to a destination market via two competing transportation service providers (i.e., carriers). The two carriers offer distinct speeds and competing freight rates, whereas customers in the destination market obtain higher utility if they receive the product earlier and their time preferences are heterogeneous. Academic/practical relevance: Perishable products are commonly shipped via multiple means of transport. The faster the mode of transport, the more expensive it is, but speed enables the product to reach the market with higher quality. In addition to the trade-off between speed and cost, the competition between carriers can also influence the shipper's transportation procurement strategies. Our model highlights the implications of carrier competition in a dual sourcing problem. Methodology: We analyze a two-stage game in which carriers first compete on freight rates, and then the shipper determines the shipping quantities. Results: We show that the shipper may benefit from product differentiation via dual-mode shipping, in which the shipment that arrives earlier is sold at a premium price. In equilibrium, the shipper's profit can be U-shaped in the speed difference between carriers. Dual sourcing may be inferior to simply restricting a single shipping service in a winner-take-all fashion. Managerial implications: This study reveals an underlying trade-off between the operational advantage from product differentiation and the cost advantage from carrier competition. To benefit from either of these advantages, a shipper should use two carriers with either very distinct or very similar speeds. Single sourcing may bring an additional cost advantage that outweighs the value of production differentiation through dual sourcing.
Dyeing of Poplar Wood through High-Pressure Processing: Performance Evaluation
Authors: Yu Yong , Yan Kaiya , Ramaswamy Hosahalli S. , Zhu Songming , Li Huanhuan , Hu Lihui , Jiang Xiuping
Published: September 2019

Abstract.

Dyeing of poplar wood through high-pressure (HP) processing was evaluated at different pressure levels (40 to 130 MPa) and compared with conventional hot dip treatment. Dyeing performance was evaluated based on external surface color, fractal color dimension, dye uptake, internal color, elemental composition, and subsequent ultraviolet aging of the wood. The internal microstructure of the treated wood was also examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results showed that the external surface color difference and change in brightness were significantly greater with HP treatment than with hot dip treatment. The hue angle of HP treated wood surfaces was 1.27 to 4.01 higher and the fractal color dimension was significantly (p < 0.05) lower than that of hot dip treated wood, demonstrating more intense and more uniform distribution of color with HP treatment. The internal color of HP treated wood was also more evenly distributed and more intense, while the hot dip treated wood had no internal dye uptake (zero penetration). SEM analysis showed that the wood structure was damaged by HP treatment, which allowed the dye solution to penetrate into the wood more easily. Among the different pressure levels, the higher pressures resulted in better dyeing performance; however, considering the treatment cost, time, and energy efficiency, 100 MPa treatment may be more economical. Keywords: Color, Dyeing, Fractal dimension, High pressure, Hot dip, Poplar wood.
Investigation of the Effect of Oscillating Magnetic Field on Fresh-Cut Pineapple and Agar Gel as a Model Food During Supercooling Preservation
Authors: Kang Taiyoung , Her Jae-Young , Hoptowit Raymond , Wall Marisa M. , Jun Soojin
Published: September 2019

Abstract. In this study, the effect of an oscillating magnetic field (OMF) on the supercooling of fresh-cut pineapple and agar gel was investigated. The pineapple was preserved in a supercooled state at -7°C, and its supercooled state was maintained for 14 days with the presence of the OMF, whereas the untreated sample was spontaneously nucleated within 24 h. Agar gel was prepared as equivalent to the soluble solids content of pineapple and showed a comparable supercooling behavior when exposed to a similar OMF treatment. Examination of the microstructures showed that cellular damage due to ice crystal formation did not occur in the supercooled pineapple and agar gel, implying that the OMF successfully inhibited ice nucleation during supercooling. The weight losses of pineapple samples preserved with refrigeration, freezing, and supercooling for 14 days were determined to be 7.3%, 23.8%, and 0.8%, respectively. Furthermore, the visual appearance showed that supercooling effectively prolonged the shelf-life of pineapple without freezing damage. The results suggest that the developed OMF technology can inhibit ice nucleation during supercooling and can be used to preserve fresh-cut fruits at subzero temperature while ensuring the food quality. In addition, a solid model food could be used as a substitute for predicting the supercooling behavior of food products. Keywords: Food preservation, Fresh-cut fruit, Oscillating magnetic field, Pineapple, Supercooling.
Nitrous Oxide Emissions from an Open-Lot Beef Cattle Feedyard in Texas
Authors: Parker David B. , Casey Kenneth D. , Waldrip Heidi M. , Min Byeng R. , Woodbury Bryan L. , Spiehs Mindy J. , Willis Will
Published: September 2019

Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a greenhouse gas (GHG) with a global warming potential much greater than that of carbon dioxide (CO2). Nitrous oxide is emitted from the manure-covered pen surfaces of open-lot beef cattle feedyards, and more than six million beef cattle are fed in the Southern Great Plains. A field research project was conducted to determine the temporal and spatial variability of N2O emissions from the pen surfaces of a commercial feedyard before and after simulated rainfall. Two week-long monitoring cycles were conducted in April and August 2018 in the Texas Panhandle. Temporal variability was assessed using six continuous automated flux chambers per pen, and spatial variability was assessed using a portable chamber at up to 61 locations in a single pen. Diurnal fluxes varied 5-fold to 10-fold over a 24 h period. Flux varied seasonally, with arithmetic means of 0.56 mg N2O-N m-2 h-1 in April and 3.21 mg N2O-N m-2 h-1 in August. Fluxes measured spatially across the pen surface over a 2 h period at midday were lognormally distributed, with April geometric and arithmetic means of -0.81 and 0.80 mg N2O-N m-2 h-1, respectively, and August geometric and arithmetic means of 0.095 and 2.6 mg N2O-N m-2 h-1, respectively. Fluxes peaked shortly after simulated rainfall. Arithmetic mean N2O-N flux for the 2 d after rainfall increased over the background level by 4.6-fold in April and 1.7-fold in August. Manure properties measured at the time of flux measurement were poorly correlated with N2O emissions and were of little value for predicting N2O emissions, which confirmed that further work is warranted on the biochemistry of feedyard manure. The results of this field research will help refine models for predicting N2O emissions from open-lot beef cattle feedyards and help to develop effective mitigation methods to conserve feedyard N. Keywords: Beef cattle, Flux chamber, Greenhouse gas, Manure, Nitrous oxide, Rainfall.